Question

A 79-year-old woman with COPD exacerbation and hypercapnic respiratory failure (pH 7.28, PaCO₂ 72 mmHg) is alert and cooperative. What is the best initial ventilatory support?

Accepted Answer

Noninvasive ventilation (bilevel positive airway pressure)

Answer

High-flow nasal cannula

Answer

Immediate endotracheal intubation

Answer

Low-flow nasal cannula

Answer

Heliox via facemask

Practice question

A 79-year-old woman with COPD exacerbation and hypercapnic respiratory failure (pH 7.28, PaCO₂ 72 mmHg) is alert and cooperative. What is the best initial ventilatory support?