A newborn of 32 weeks' gestation currently is receiving nasal CPAP.The respiratory therapist recently increased the CPAP level from 8 to 10 cm H₂O;the F_IO₂ is 0.6.On the new setting,the PaO₂ is 52 mm Hg and the PaCO₂ increased from 48 to 55 mm Hg.The most likely cause of this is which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rise in CO₂ after the increase in the CPAP level is most likely due to pulmonary overdistention,which leads to increased work of breathing.The increased WOB causes CO₂ retention.

A Newborn of 32 Weeks' Gestation Currently Is Receiving Nasal