A 16-year-old asthmatic comes into the ER in acute distress due to bronchospasm.The patient has received two treatments with albuterol,but her condition is deteriorating quickly.The patient is moderately hypoxemic,with a respiratory rate of 32.Which of the following would you recommend to help improve oxygen and medication delivery?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Inhalation of a mixture of 30% oxygen and 70% helium (often referred to as Heliox) can improve oxygen and medication delivery in cases of severe asthma or bronchospasm. Helium is less dense than air, which can reduce the work of breathing and improve airflow in obstructed airways, allowing for better distribution of inhaled medications and oxygen.

A 16-Year-Old Asthmatic Comes into the ER in Acute Distress