Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT-TMC) Practice Exam

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In independent lung ventilation, which of the following is an appropriate rationale for delivering a smaller tidal volume to the operated lung?

To improve oxygenation of the operated lung To protect the operated lung from barotrauma To maximize overall lung compliance To equalize pressures between lungs

Correct Answer:

To protect the operated lung from barotrauma

Explanation:

Independent lung ventilation lets you ventilate each lung separately, using different tidal volumes and pressures based on the condition of each lung. The operated lung is typically more fragile after surgery and may have reduced compliance, edema, air leaks, or other injury. Delivering a smaller tidal volume to that lung reduces the distending and plateau pressures it experiences, lowering the risk of barotrauma or volutrauma. This protective approach keeps the operated lung safer while the non-operated lung receives ventilation appropriate to its own mechanics. Other aims, like maximizing overall oxygenation or equalizing pressures, don’t address the specific vulnerability of the operated lung as effectively.

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