A 62-year-old man was admitted for a suspected myocardial infarction. Current ABG values on room air are as follows: PaO₂ = 56 mm Hg, PaCO₂ = 34 mm Hg, pH = 7.47, and HCO₃⁻ = 26 mEq/L. Which of the following is the most appropriate form of respiratory therapy for this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient is experiencing hypoxemia (low PaO2) with respiratory alkalosis (high pH, low PaCO2). Oxygen therapy is the most appropriate initial treatment to correct the hypoxemia.

A 62-Year-Old Man Was Admitted for a Suspected Myocardial Infarction