A 64-year-old with COPD exacerbation has ABG: pH 7.29, PaCO₂ 60 mmHg, PaO₂ 58 mmHg on 2 L O₂. Best next step?...

Question

A 64-year-old with COPD exacerbation has ABG: pH 7.29, PaCO₂ 60 mmHg, PaO₂ 58 mmHg on 2 L O₂. Best next step?

Accepted Answer

Initiate noninvasive ventilation (NIV)

Answer

Immediate intubation without NIV trial

Answer

High-flow oxygen targeting SpO₂ 100%

Answer

No ventilatory support; increase bronchodilators only

Answer

Start acetazolamide to lower CO₂ first

us-abem MCQ (SBA): COPD with Hypercapnic Respiratory Failure