Intermediate
Technical
IVT
tidal volume
The amount of air inhaled or exhaled during normal, quiet breathing at rest.
Full Definition
Tidal volume (VT or TV) represents the volume of air that moves in and out of the lungs during each respiratory cycle under resting conditions. Normal tidal volume is approximately 500-600 mL in healthy adults, or about 6-8 mL per kilogram of body weight. In mechanical ventilation, tidal volume is a critical setting that must be carefully monitored to prevent ventilator-induced lung injury. Editors should note the distinction between tidal volume and other lung capacity measurements.
Usage
Usage note: Abbreviated as VT or TV; always lowercase 'volume' when spelled out.
In Context
- "The ventilator was set to deliver a tidal volume of 450 mL." — Mechanical ventilation order
- "Pulmonary function testing revealed a reduced tidal volume of 380 mL." — Diagnostic report
Also known as
VT
TV
Don't confuse with
total lung capacity
vital capacity