Question

A subject with COPD has been difficult to wean from mechanical ventilation. To minimize CO2 production, the caloric intake of the subject should consist mainly of:

A) Carbohydrates
B) Proteins
C) Fats
D) Fiber

Answer 1

To reduce CO2 production for a COPD patient on mechanical ventilation, the patient's diet should primarily consist of fats due to their lower respiratory quotient compared to carbohydrates and proteins.

Step-by-step explanation:

To minimize CO2 production in a subject with COPD who has been difficult to wean from mechanical ventilation, the caloric intake should primarily consist of fats. Fats have a respiratory quotient (RQ) of approximately 0.7, meaning that their metabolism produces less CO2 compared to the amount of oxygen consumed than carbohydrates or proteins.

Carbohydrates have an RQ of 1.0—signifying equal moles of CO2 produced per oxygen consumed—which is less desirable for someone with COPD trying to minimize CO2 production. Proteins have an RQ of around 0.8, and while lower than carbohydrates, they still produce more CO2 than fats. Fiber, while beneficial for digestive health and regulating blood sugar levels, does not significantly alter CO2 production in this context.