respiratory insufficiency

Introduction

Inadequate exchange of oxygen between the pulmonary alveoli & the blood in the pulmonary capillaries.

Etiology

see dyspnea

Clinical manifestations

• dyspnea

Laboratory

• arterial blood gas will show
  • hypoxia
  • hypercarbia may be present
  • respiratory acidosis
• serum bicarbonate may be high if time to allow metabolic compensation has elapsed

Management

• treat underlying etiology
• oxygen administration
• mechanical ventilation may be indicated