What is a common cause of a low exhaled volume alarm?

A low exhaled volume alarm is commonly triggered by a patient disconnect. This situation occurs when there is a break in the ventilatory circuit, causing a significant portion of the delivered tidal volume to escape without reaching the patient. When the ventilator detects that the delivered volume does not match the expected or set parameters, it generates a low exhaled volume alarm to alert caregivers of the issue.

Addressing the other options: High tidal volume could lead to different types of alarms, primarily related to peak pressures or compliance issues, rather than specifically a low exhaled volume alarm. Excessive secretions can impede airflow but are more likely to result in alarms related to increased airway resistance or pressure rather than low exhaled volumes. Ventilator settings, unless configured improperly, typically do not directly cause low exhaled volumes unless associated with a disconnect or leak. Thus, identifying and correcting a patient disconnect is essential for resolving the low exhaled volume alarm efficiently.