Administration of oxygen to patients with COPD that raises their PaO₂ above 70 mmHg can cause oxygen-induced hypercapnia due to which of the following mechanism?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Administration of supplemental oxygen can lead to depression of the peripheral chemoreceptors, causing a decrease in ventilatory drive and hypoventilation, which can result in hypercapnia. This effect is particularly seen in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who have blunted hypoxic drive and rely more on the peripheral chemoreceptors for respiratory drive. Stimulation of the respiratory center and formation of free radicals are not mechanisms of oxygen-induced hypercapnia. Washout of nitrogen in the lungs is a process that occurs during oxygen therapy but does not lead to hypercapnia.

Administration of Oxygen to Patients with COPD That Raises Their