Final answer:
An HME can return around 70-80% of the heat and moisture to the patient during their next inspiration.
Step-by-step explanation:
An HME (Heat and Moisture Exchanger) is a device used in ventilated patients to help conserve heat and moisture that is usually lost during exhalation. These devices are designed to capture and return a portion of the patient's exhaled heat and moisture during their next inspiration.
The amount of heat and moisture returned by an HME depends on various factors such as the design of the device and the patient's breathing patterns. Generally, HMEs can return around 70-80% of the heat and moisture to the patient during their next inspiration.
Therefore, based on the given options, the most accurate answer would be 75% (c) as it falls within the typical range of heat and moisture returned by an HME.