All of the following are true of respiratory physiology in the neonate (as
compared to the adult) EXCEPT:
a) The dead space ratio is 0.3
b) Vital capacity is 3 times greater (per kilogram) than in the adult
c) A tidal volume of 18 mL/kg would be unusual
d) Carbon dioxide production is approximately 3 times greater in the newborn
(per kilogram)
Click for Answer
Answer
Answer b.
Vital capacity, Functional residual capacity, tidal volume, and dead
space are all similar between adults and neonates. However, respiratory rate
(and hence minute ventilation) are increased three-fold to accommodate the
significantly increased oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production in the
neonate.
Notes
- This question originally printed in the Pediatric Anesthesiology Review Topics kindle book series, and appears courtesy of Naerthwyn Press, LLC.
Keywords
<Prev Question --- Next Question>
About Test Your Knowledge