In which of the following patients would transcutaneous blood gas monitoring most likely provide inaccurate or erroneous results?
A) Newborn infant with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS)
B) Patient with hypoxemia
C) Patient with a hyperpyrexia
D) Patient in hypovolemic shock

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This is because accurate transcutaneous measures require adequate skin perfusion. Low cardiac output, shock, and dehydration all cause peripheral vasoconstriction and impair capillary flow, which lowers the P_tcO₂ level.

In Which of the Following Patients Would Transcutaneous Blood Gas