A therapist is monitoring a child on the mechanical ventilator who is hemodynamically stable. The PetCO₂ is 48 mm Hg. If accurate, what should be the PaCO₂?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

PetCO₂ can be used as a surrogate for the arterial PaCO₂ within physiologic limits. Normally, PetCO₂ is 2 to 5 mm Hg below PaCO₂. The reason for this is the proportion dead space ventilation.

A Therapist Is Monitoring a Child on the Mechanical Ventilator