American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

What could be a consequence of improperly managing RQ levels?

1. Increased energy levels

2. Vent weaning problems

3. Enhanced nutrient absorption

4. Improved metabolic rate

The correct answer is: Vent weaning problems

Improper management of respiratory quotient (RQ) levels can lead to breathing complications, particularly during the process of weaning patients off mechanical ventilation. The RQ is a measure of the ratio of carbon dioxide produced to oxygen consumed, and it reflects the substrate metabolism; it can vary with different metabolic states. If RQ levels are not appropriately managed, it could indicate an imbalance in the metabolic processes, which may complicate the transition from mechanical ventilation to spontaneous breathing. During weaning, adequate gas exchange is crucial, and any disturbance in RQ may affect ventilatory efficiency, leading to issues such as hypoxemia or hypercapnia. This situation can result in difficulty in maintaining stable respiratory function, potentially prolonging the weaning process or leading to failure to wean. In contrast, the other options such as increased energy levels, enhanced nutrient absorption, or improved metabolic rate typically result when metabolic states are managed properly and are not consequences of mismanaged RQ levels.