Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Practice Exam

In conventional ventilation strategies, what is the most significant factor affecting CO2 removal?

1. Tidal volume and frequency

2. Mean airway pressure and flow rate

3. Inspiratory time and lung volume

4. End-expiratory lung volume and gas composition

The correct answer is: Tidal volume and frequency

In conventional ventilation strategies, the most significant factor affecting CO2 removal is the combination of tidal volume and frequency. Tidal volume refers to the amount of air delivered to the lungs with each breath, while frequency indicates how often breaths are administered per minute. CO2 removal is primarily driven by the volume of fresh air that reaches the alveoli, where gas exchange occurs. Increased tidal volume enhances the volume of air that enters the lungs, leading to better ventilation of the alveoli and thus more effective clearance of carbon dioxide. In conjunction with this, adjusting the frequency of ventilation (the rate of breaths) can also impact how much CO2 is expelled from the lungs over time. Together, these two variables directly influence the minute ventilation, which is a critical determinant of effective CO2 elimination during mechanical ventilation. The other options, while important in various contexts, do not hold the same level of significance for CO2 removal. Mean airway pressure and flow rate relate more to the mechanics of ventilation rather than specifically targeting CO2 clearance. Inspiratory time and lung volume influence factors such as oxygen delivery and overall ventilation efficiency but are less direct in their effect on CO2 removal compared to tidal volume and frequency. End-expiratory lung volume and gas composition also play a