A patient with COPD and previous hypercapnic respiratory failure becomes breathless. Which oxygen saturation target is appropriate before blood gases are available?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. 88 to 92 percent
- Step 1: Patients at risk of hypercapnic respiratory failure should avoid excess oxygen.
- Step 2: BTS guidance targets 88 to 92 percent in this group until gases show no hypercapnia.
Answer
88 to 92 percent.
Why not the others: 94 to 98 percent: 94 to 98 percent is the target for most acutely ill patients, not those at risk of hypercapnia. Any value: Excess oxygen in COPD can cause harmful hypercapnia. 100 percent, to give a margin of safety in case the saturation falls: Oxygen at 100 percent can worsen CO2 retention.
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