The therapist is providing mechanical ventilation for a patient who has hypoxemic respiratory failure. Which of the following nutritional regimens should the therapist recommend for this patient?

A. an enteral formula having a caloric profile of fat 20%, carbohydrates 20%, and protein 60%
B. an enteral formula having a caloric profile of fat 30%, carbohydrates 50%, and protein 20%
C. a parenteral formula having a caloric profile of fat 20%, carbohydrates 10%, and protein 70%?D. a parenteral formula having a caloric profile of fat 40%, carbohydrates 40%, and protein 20%??

ANS: B
A. Incorrect response: See explanation B.
B. Correct response: Patients maintained on mechanical ventilation because of hypoxemic respiratory failure tolerate a standard enteral or parenteral formula. In these patients, a standard substrate profile is appropriate, with fat contributing 20% to 30% of the calories, carbohydrates 40% to 50%, and protein the remainder.
C. Incorrect response: See explanation B.
D. Incorrect response: See explanation B.