**Core Concept**
The ideal tidal volume in a patient ventilated for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a critical factor in preventing ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI). The concept of lung-protective ventilation emphasizes the use of lower tidal volumes to minimize alveolar overdistension and cyclic atelectasis.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The ARDS Network (ARDSNet) trial demonstrated that using tidal volumes of 6 mL/kg of predicted body weight (PBW) resulted in significantly lower mortality rates compared to higher tidal volumes. This is because smaller tidal volumes reduce the risk of alveolar overdistension and cyclic atelectasis, which can lead to inflammation and further lung injury. The use of lower tidal volumes also promotes more uniform lung inflation, thereby improving oxygenation.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Using tidal volumes greater than 8 mL/kg of PBW can lead to VILI, characterized by alveolar overdistension and barotrauma, which can worsen lung injury and outcome in ARDS patients.
**Option B:** Tidal volumes of 4 mL/kg of PBW may be too low and can lead to inadequate ventilation, resulting in hypercapnia and respiratory acidosis.
**Option C:** Tidal volumes of 10 mL/kg of PBW are excessive and can cause significant lung damage, including alveolar rupture and pneumothorax.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In patients with ARDS, the use of lower tidal volumes (6 mL/kg of PBW) can lead to improved outcomes, including reduced mortality and ventilator-free days.

**Correct Answer: C. 6 mL/kg of predicted body weight.**