Imparied gas exchange:

Classifications + Relavent Physiology

!Hypoxemic/Type I RF

Hypercapnia (Type II RF)

• PCO2 respond to Hyperventilation (RR > 30) , but PO2 does not → because HbSat is already high in the well-perfused regions.
• Diffusion problem commonly don’t affect PCO2, but PO2, as CO2 is very diffusible

Presentation

Signs and Symptoms

• Symptoms:
  • !SOB (Dyspnea)
  • Fatigue, Anxiety, light-headedness, limited activity, ankle swelling
• Signs:
  • Tachypnea
  • Low O2 sat
  • PaO2 < 60
  • Cyanosis
  • Respiratory Distress on exam

Investigation

Tests

1. ABG
2. CXR - Chest X ray
3. CBC
4. Electrolyte + HCO3 - Bicarbs

Management

1. Check and stabilizeABCs (primary survey)
2. Oxygen Delivery Devices
3. Treat respective causes