Question

A 70-year-old woman with COPD is admitted with an acute exacerbation. An arterial blood gas (ABG) on 28% oxygen shows: pH 7.28 (7.35-7.45), PaCO2 7.5 kPa (4.5-6.0). She is drowsy but rousable. What is the most appropriate intervention?

Accepted Answer

Start Non-Invasive Ventilation (NIV/BiPAP)

Answer

Increase oxygen to maintain saturations >95%

Answer

Start IV Aminophylline infusion

Answer

Administer IV Sodium Bicarbonate

Answer

Intubation and mechanical ventilation

Practice question

A 70-year-old woman with COPD is admitted with an acute exacerbation. An arterial blood gas (ABG) on 28% oxygen shows: pH 7.28 (7.35-7.45), PaCO2 7.5 kPa (4.5-6.0). She is drowsy but rousable. What is the most appropriate intervention?