Lung recruitment is not unlike a powerful force – used inappropriately, it can wreak havoc. While the application of PEEP may be able to prevent alveolar collapse, higher (more dangerous) pressures may be needed to re-open atelactactic alveoli and improve oxygenation. Assessment of the recruitment potential of the lungs is an essential first step to differentiate recruiters from non-recruiters, as lung recruitment should be avoided in the latter group. Providers also need to be familiar with some of the common recruitment maneuvers and anticipate the complications that may arise. At the end of the maneuver, PEEP is set based on the patient’s optimum PEEP.