Question

A 74-year-old with COPD exacerbation has ABG: pH 7.28, PaCO2 65 mm Hg, PaO2 56 mm Hg on 2 L O2, RR 30 with use of accessory muscles. What is the best next step?

Accepted Answer

Initiate noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation (BiPAP)

Answer

Intubate immediately

Answer

Increase oxygen to 6 L/min without ventilation

Answer

Start IV corticosteroids only

Answer

Give antibiotics and discharge

Practice question

A 74-year-old with COPD exacerbation has ABG: pH 7.28, PaCO2 65 mm Hg, PaO2 56 mm Hg on 2 L O2, RR 30 with use of accessory muscles. What is the best next step?