A mechanically ventilated patient exhibits a sudden decrease in end-tidal CO₂ levels. All of the following are possible causes of this change except:

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A sudden decrease in end-tidal CO₂ levels could be due to a decrease in ventilation or an increase in production of CO₂. Massive pulmonary embolism, disconnection of the ventilator, and sudden drop in cardiac output can all result in a decrease in ventilation. Hence, option C, which is the only option that does not involve any decrease in ventilation, is not a possible cause for the sudden decrease in end-tidal CO₂ levels.

A Mechanically Ventilated Patient Exhibits a Sudden Decrease in End-Tidal