Correct Answer: B — \(9.8 \text{ L/min}\)

Formula for Minute Ventilation:
\[\dot{V}_E = V_T \times RR\]
\[\dot{V}_E = 700 \text{ mL} \times 14 = 9800 \text{ mL/min} = 9.8 \text{ L/min}\]

Clinical significance:

• Normal \(\dot{V}_E\) = \(5 - 8 \text{ L/min}\)
• This patient's \(\dot{V}_E\) of \(9.8 \text{ L/min}\) is elevated, risking hyperventilation and respiratory alkalosis
• Lung-protective ventilation targets \(V_T = 6 \text{ mL/kg}\) ideal body weight (IBW) to prevent ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI)
• If IBW = 70 kg, then target \(V_T = 6 \times 70 = 420 \text{ mL}\)

The Charge Nurse should alert the intensivist to review ventilator settings.