When assessing a patient's oxygen status, a decrease in PaO₂ with little or no increase in P(A-a)O₂ is probably due to ____ and this can be confirmed by an elevated PaCO₂.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A decrease in PaO2 with little or no increase in P(A-a)O2 is likely due to hypoventilation, and this can be confirmed by an elevated PaCO2, indicating a retention of carbon dioxide due to inadequate ventilation.

When Assessing a Patient's Oxygen Status, a Decrease in PaO2

When Assessing a Patient's Oxygen Status, a Decrease in PaO₂