A respirometer is most useful for which of the following assessments?

A respirometer is specifically designed to measure respiratory parameters, making it an essential tool for evaluating lung function and respiration rates. It provides quantitative data about the volume of air inhaled and exhaled during breathing, which is critical in assessing how well the lungs are functioning. This can help healthcare professionals determine if a patient is experiencing respiratory distress, has a certain lung disease, or is effectively recovering from conditions affecting their respiratory system.

While monitoring surgical recovery, detecting arrhythmias, and assessing levels of consciousness are important components of patient care, they do not primarily involve measuring respiratory mechanics or gas exchange, which are the main functions of a respirometer. Hence, option C stands out as the most relevant use of this device in clinical assessments.