During initial mechanical ventilation of the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patient with chronic hypercapnia, what PaCO₂ is most likely used as a target value? A) 30 mm Hg B) 40 mm Hg C) 55 mm Hg D) 75 mm Hg

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the care of patients with acute exacerbation of COPD and accompanying chronic ventilatory failure, the clinician may target ventilatory support to achieve the patient's "normal" PaCO₂ and pH. For COPD patients with chronic hypercapnia, this may mean a target PaCO₂ of 50 to 60 mm Hg with a pH of 7.30 to 7.35.

During Initial Mechanical Ventilation of the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease