Which combination yields the lowest minute volume?

To determine which combination yields the lowest minute volume, it's important to understand the minute volume formula, which is the product of respiratory rate and tidal volume. Minute volume is calculated as:

Minute Volume = Respiratory Rate x Tidal Volume

In this case, we need to calculate the minute volumes for each option:

• For the first option, with a respiratory rate of 14 breaths per minute and a tidal volume of 300 mL:

Minute Volume = 14 x 300 = 4200 mL/min

• The second option has a respiratory rate of 12 breaths per minute and a tidal volume of 500 mL:

Minute Volume = 12 x 500 = 6000 mL/min

• The third option consists of a respiratory rate of 16 breaths per minute with a tidal volume of 400 mL:

Minute Volume = 16 x 400 = 6400 mL/min

• In the final option, there is a respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute and a tidal volume of 500 mL:

Minute Volume = 10 x 500 = 5000 mL/min

After calculating these, it becomes clear that the first option, with a minute volume of