Respiratory

Question 1

A pulmonary embolism will caused what arterial blood gas changes?

Answer 1

• Hypoxemia due the V/Q mismatch
• Respiratory alkalosis (hypocapnia)due tohyperventilation

Question 2

Which parameter can distinguish noncardiogenic pulmonary edema (i.e. ARDS, high-altitude pulmonary edema) from cardiogenic pulmonary edema (i.e., decompensated LV failure, volume overload)?

Answer 2

Normal pulmonary capillary wedge pressure = 6-12 mmHg

Question 3

Which lab value is considered to be the main indicator of total alveolar ventilation and how?

Answer 3

• Arterial PaCO₂ = inversely related and considered the main indicator of alveolar ventilation
• Hypocapnia implies alveolar HYPERventilation