A semi-conscious patient with a severe asthma episode continues to deteriorate clinically in ER and does not respond to treatment.Which acid base abnormality would you expect to be present?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a severe asthma episode, the patient may initially develop respiratory alkalosis due to hyperventilation. However, as the condition worsens and the patient becomes unable to adequately ventilate, CO2 retention leads to respiratory acidosis. Over time, the hypoxia and increased work of breathing can lead to lactic acid production, contributing to metabolic acidosis. Therefore, in a deteriorating semi-conscious patient not responding to treatment, a combined metabolic and respiratory acidosis is most likely.

A Semi-Conscious Patient with a Severe Asthma Episode Continues to Deteriorate