Question

A 68-year-old man with COPD presents with increased breathlessness and green sputum. Arterial blood gases on 35% Venturi oxygen show pH 7.28, PaCO2 8.0 kPa, PaO2 9.0 kPa, HCO3– 30 mmol/L. What is the most appropriate immediate oxygen strategy?

Accepted Answer

Maintain controlled oxygen aiming saturations 88–92% and consider non-invasive ventilation

Answer

Increase oxygen to 60% via non-rebreathe mask

Answer

Stop oxygen completely

Answer

Aim for saturations above 98% on high-flow oxygen

Answer

Give no oxygen unless PaO2 falls below 8 kPa

Practice question

A 68-year-old man with COPD presents with increased breathlessness and green sputum. Arterial blood gases on 35% Venturi oxygen show pH 7.28, PaCO2 8.0 kPa, PaO2 9.0 kPa, HCO3– 30 mmol/L. What is the most appropriate immediate oxygen strategy?