Respiratory Failure Flashcards
What is respiratory failure?
Respiratory failure is when the lungs fail to function. It consists of no gaseous exchange leading to hypoxemia and hypercapnia.
What is hypoxemia?
Hypoxemia is an abnormally low concentration of oxygen in the blood.
What is hypercapnia?
Hypercapnia is excessive carbon dioxide in the bloodstream, typically caused by inadequate respiration.
What are some causes of respiratory failure?
There are many. Several examples: COPD, Atelectasis, Guillain-Barre Syndrome, Pulmonary Edema.
What are the manifestations of Respiratory Failure?
Hypoxemia, Hypercapnia, Respiratory Acidosis, and Manifestations of underlying cause.
What is the partial pressure of oxygen for a person experiencing hypoxemia?
PaO2 less than 60 mmHg
What is the partial pressure of carbon dioxide for a person experiencing hypercapnia?
PaCO2 greater than 45 mmHg
Why is a person in respiratory failure also in respiratory acidosis?
An individual in respiratory failure has an excess of CO2 because they are unable to expel it though their respiratory system. The increased levels of CO2, combines with water, and forms H2CO3 which is carbonic acid. The high levels of acid lead to acidosis.
What is the goal and aim in treatment of respiratory failure?
The aim is to restore gas exchange. This can be achieved through oxygen therapy, bronchodilators, mechanical ventilation, and antibiotics. The underlying caues must be addressed for the restored gas exchange to occur.
