What is the ideal tidal volume range for a patient with ARDS?
- 6 to 10 ml/kg of predicted body weight
- 4 to 6 ml/kg of predicted body weight
- 10 to 12 ml/kg of predicted body weight
- 8 to 10 ml/kg of predicted body weight
Explanation
The NBRC encourages exam candidates to “seek opportunities” to use a lung protective strategy by selecting tidal volumes of no greater than 8 ml/kg. ARDS patients and patients with plateau pressures ≥ 30 cm H2O provide such an opportunity. Though 8 ml/kg is the NBRC limit, the ideal tidal volume range of 4 to 6 ml/kg may be used on the exam for ARDS patients.