You are transporting an intubated patient, with a heartbeat and on the ventilator, to another hospital for specialized care. The patient is sedated with the following vital signs: pulse 68, respiration via ventilator at 12/minute, blood pressure 112/68, SpO₂ 97%, and PETCO₂ 40 mHg. When reassessing the patient, which of the following is the greatest concern and demands that the EMT notify the ALS provider?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

PETCO₂ level dropping to 15 mmHg is the greatest concern as it indicates that the patient may not be receiving adequate ventilation. This could lead to respiratory or cardiac arrest and necessitates immediate intervention by the ALS provider. The other values, while outside of normal ranges, are still within acceptable limits.

You Are Transporting an Intubated Patient, with a Heartbeat and on the Ventilator