Which finding most strongly suggests carbon dioxide retention in a patient with respiratory disease?
Correct answer: A. Increasing drowsiness with a bounding pulse
- A. Increasing drowsiness with a bounding pulse
- B. Pins and needles around the mouth with anxiety
- C. Bright red sputum after vigorous coughing
- D. Sharp pain that worsens with inspiration
Explanation
Rising carbon dioxide can cause headache, confusion, drowsiness and, later, reduced consciousness, often with vasodilation and a bounding pulse. Anxiety and perioral tingling are more commonly associated with hyperventilation and low carbon dioxide.
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About Respiratory Nursing
Covers nursing assessment and management of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pneumonia, tuberculosis, pleural disorders and respiratory failure. Key areas include breath sounds, oxygen therapy, airway suctioning, inhaled medicines, arterial blood gases and the difference between hypoxia, hypoxemia and carbon dioxide retention.
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