Your patient has a long history of COPD with CO₂ retention.He now is admitted for acute respiratory failure due to a lung infection.His PaCO₂ has acutely elevated to over 70 mmHg.The physician decides to intubate and use mechanical ventilation.What should be your goal with the mechanical ventilation? A)Return the PaCO₂ to about 40 mmHg B)Return the PaCO₂ to about 50 mmHg C)Lower the PaCO₂ enough to return the pH to 7.35 D)Lower the PaCO₂ enough to return the pH to 7.50

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The goal of mechanical ventilation in this patient is to lower the PaCO2 enough to return the pH to a normal range of 7.35-7.45. This is because an elevated PaCO2 can lead to respiratory acidosis and a decrease in pH. The options of returning the PaCO2 to 40 or 50 mmHg may not be feasible or safe, as this may require high levels of ventilatory support which can cause harm to patients with COPD. Lowering the PaCO2 to the point of alkalosis (pH 7.50) is also not appropriate, as this can lead to complications such as electrolyte imbalances and seizures.

Your Patient Has a Long History of COPD with CO2

Your Patient Has a Long History of COPD with CO₂