In a patient with COPD exacerbation, which ABG result indicates the next anticipated treatment is NIPPV?

In a patient with a COPD exacerbation, the arterial blood gas (ABG) results can provide critical insight into the patient's respiratory status and guide treatment decisions. The correct answer highlights a scenario where Non-Invasive Positive Pressure Ventilation (NIPPV) is indicated.

The ABG result showing a pH of 7.28 and a PaO2 of 60 suggests a significant respiratory acidosis due to hypercapnia and a low oxygen level, which is typical in severe COPD exacerbations. The low pH indicates that the patient is acidemic, which can be a result of inadequate ventilation leading to increased carbon dioxide (PaCO2) levels. This condition often requires intervention to improve ventilation, and NIPPV is a preferred treatment modality as it assists in enhancing the patient's ventilation while avoiding the risks associated with intubation.

In contrast, the other ABG results indicate different levels of respiratory status:

• A pH of 7.55 and a PaCO2 of 31 reflects respiratory alkalosis, which is not a condition generally treated with NIPPV.

• A pH of 7.40 and PaCO2 of 40 presents a normal respiratory function, suggesting that the patient is stable and does not require