In a sedated, mechanically ventilated patient, inspiratory tidal volumes are consistently larger than expiratory tidal volumes. If it is assumed that there is no leak in the circuit, which of the following provides the best explanation for this discrepancy?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The compressibility factor of the ventilator circuit can cause a discrepancy between inspiratory and expiratory tidal volumes, as some of the inspired volume is used to expand the circuit itself, leading to a larger measured inspiratory volume compared to expiratory volume.

In a Sedated, Mechanically Ventilated Patient, Inspiratory Tidal Volumes Are