Which of the following actions helps eliminate CO2 in a patient on a ventilator?

Increasing tidal volume in a patient on a ventilator directly influences the elimination of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the body. Tidal volume refers to the amount of air delivered to the lungs with each ventilator breath. By increasing the tidal volume, more air enters the alveoli, which enhances the exchange of gases, particularly improving ventilation. This process allows for a greater amount of CO2 to be expelled during exhalation, thereby reducing the overall CO2 levels in the blood.

In the context of ventilatory management, a patient requiring assistance in CO2 elimination typically exhibits signs of inadequate ventilation, such as hypercapnia (increased CO2 levels). Adjusting the tidal volume appropriately ensures that sufficient gas exchange occurs, thereby promoting effective clearance of CO2.

Reducing respiratory rate, increasing dead space, or lowering inspiratory pressure may not effectively improve CO2 elimination. In fact, such adjustments could lead to inadequate ventilation, thereby possibly worsening hypercapnia.