Question

A 70-year-old man with severe COPD (FEV1 35% predicted) presents with increased dyspnoea, cough and sputum production. His arterial blood gas on 2 L/min oxygen via nasal cannulae shows: pH 7.29, PaCO2 8.0 kPa, PaO2 9.0 kPa, HCO3– 32 mmol/L. What is the most appropriate target oxygen saturation during acute management?

Accepted Answer

88–92% using controlled oxygen therapy

Answer

94–98% regardless of CO2 retention

Answer

Above 98% using high-flow oxygen via non-rebreathe mask

Answer

70–75% to avoid any risk of CO2 retention

Answer

No oxygen therapy should be given in COPD exacerbations

Practice question