AEMCA Practice Exam

According to respiratory failure standards, what should an ETCO2 value be maintained at for a COPD or asthma patient with an initial ETCO2 of over 50?

1. Between 40-50 mmHg

2. Between 50-60 mmHg

3. Above 60 mmHg

4. Below 40 mmHg

The correct answer is: Between 50-60 mmHg

The recommended range for maintaining ETCO2 (end-tidal carbon dioxide) values in patients with COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) or asthma who present with an initial ETCO2 above 50 mmHg is between 50-60 mmHg. This is because patients with these conditions often experience hypercapnia (elevated CO2 levels in the blood) due to impaired gas exchange. Maintaining the ETCO2 within this range allows for adequate ventilation while avoiding the risks associated with overventilation, which can lead to respiratory alkalosis and other complications. The goal is to keep the CO2 levels elevated enough to ensure proper acid-base balance while managing the underlying respiratory condition effectively. It is essential to adjust treatment based on continuous monitoring of the ETCO2 to ensure that the patient remains stable without significant deterioration. In contrast, values outside this range can indicate inadequate ventilation management. Levels above 60 mmHg suggest worsening CO2 retention, which can lead to severe respiratory failure, while levels below 40 mmHg indicate hyperventilation, potentially causing alkalosis. Therefore, the correct management of ETCO2 levels is crucial for optimizing the treatment course for patients with COPD or asthma experiencing respiratory failure.