Respiratory

Minute Ventilation Calculator

Respiratory rate times tidal volume: the air moved per minute, which sets how fast CO2 is cleared.

Reviewed by Alex G, BSN, RN, CEN, CCRN, CMC, NREMT-P · From the Reference tab of the app

Turn on JavaScript to use this calculator, or open it in the web app.

Formula

(RR * Vt) / 1000

How it is used

• Alveolar ventilation, rate × (Vt − dead space), is what clears CO₂; minute ventilation includes the dead space.
• With CO₂ production and dead space unchanged, PaCO₂ falls in proportion as ventilation rises: new rate = current rate × current PaCO₂ ÷ target PaCO₂.
• After intubation for metabolic acidosis (DKA, salicylates), match the patient’s own minute ventilation, often 15–25 L/min, and recheck a gas within about 30 minutes.
• A rising PaCO₂ on unchanged settings means more CO₂ production (fever, shivering, overfeeding, bicarbonate) or more dead space (PE, low output, auto-PEEP).

Same formula as the app. Open it in the web app.

Related one-pagers

• Ventilator Modes and SettingsPaCO₂ and pH · Rate or Vt (minute ventilation = RR × Vt)
• ABG Interpretation in 6 StepsMetabolic acidosis · Keep minute ventilation high · Standard settings drop pH fast
• BurnsProgressive tachypnea · >25/min, or minute ventilation >12 L/min
• Aerosol Drugs and HumiditySwitch an HME to a heated humidifier for thick, copious or bloody secretions; exhaled volume under 70% of delivered; temperature under 32 °C; minute ventilation over 10 L/min; low-tidal-volume ventilation; or NIV.

Related calculators

• A-a Gradient
• Alveolar Gas Equation (PAO₂)
• Arterial Oxygen Content (CaO₂)
• Dead Space Fraction (Bohr)
• Driving Pressure
• Dynamic Compliance
• O₂ Extraction Ratio
• Oxygen Consumption (VO₂)

For education and exam preparation only. Follow your institution’s protocols. For education and exam preparation only. Verify results independently and follow your institution’s protocols. Not a substitute for clinical judgment.