Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

What happens to minute volume if the respiratory rate is increased?

1. It decreases

2. It remains the same

3. It increases

4. It becomes zero

The correct answer is: It increases

Minute volume refers to the total volume of air that is inhaled or exhaled from a person's lungs in one minute, which is calculated by multiplying the tidal volume (the amount of air per breath) by the respiratory rate (the number of breaths taken per minute). When the respiratory rate is increased, assuming tidal volume remains constant, the total air exchanged will also increase. For example, if an individual breathes more rapidly, even if each breath contains the same volume of air, the sheer number of breaths per minute will result in a greater total volume of air exchanged in that time period. Thus, when the respiratory rate increases, minute volume increases as well. This concept is crucial not only in understanding basic respiratory physiology but also in applying this knowledge in emergency medical situations where a patient may exhibit increased respiratory rates due to various conditions or stimuli.