In pressure cycled ventilation for neonates and pediatrics, what is the typical tidal volume range for a term infant?

• A. 2-4 ml/kg
• B. 4-6 ml/kg
• C. 6-8 ml/kg
• D. 8-10 ml/kg

Answer: (B)

In neonates, you ventilate with small, carefully controlled tidal volumes to protect delicate lungs while ensuring adequate gas exchange. For term infants on pressure-cycled ventilation, the typical tidal volume is about 4–6 ml per kilogram. This range balances delivering enough ventilation without overdistending the lungs. Delivering much less, around 2–4 ml/kg, risks hypoventilation and CO2 retention. Delivering larger volumes, such as 6–8 ml/kg or 8–10 ml/kg, increases the risk of volutrauma and barotrauma, especially in neonatal airways that are still fragile. Therefore, 4–6 ml/kg is the best target.