What is the maximum prescribed flow rate of oxygen for a client with emphysema?

What is the maximum prescribed flow rate of oxygen for a client with emphysema?

• A. 2 L/min
• B. 3 L/min
• C. 4 L/min
• D. 5 L/min

Answer: (B)

For a patient with emphysema, it is crucial to carefully regulate oxygen flow rates due to the risk of carbon dioxide retention and respiratory depression. Chronic emphysema can lead to a hypoxic drive for breathing, meaning that these patients may rely more on low levels of oxygen in their blood than on carbon dioxide levels for their respiratory stimulus. The maximum prescribed flow rate for oxygen in these patients is generally kept at a lower level to prevent oxygen-induced hypercapnia (excess carbon dioxide in the blood). A flow rate of up to 3 liters per minute is commonly considered appropriate for a client with emphysema to maintain adequate oxygenation while minimizing the risk of complications. This controlled approach allows for sufficient oxygen delivery without overwhelming the patient’s respiratory drive, making it vital to adhere to this standard. In contrast, higher flow rates could potentially lead to the aforementioned risks, making it less suitable for this patient population.

For a patient with emphysema, it is crucial to carefully regulate oxygen flow rates due to the risk of carbon dioxide retention and respiratory depression. Chronic emphysema can lead to a hypoxic drive for breathing, meaning that these patients may rely more on low levels of oxygen in their blood than on carbon dioxide levels for their respiratory stimulus.

The maximum prescribed flow rate for oxygen in these patients is generally kept at a lower level to prevent oxygen-induced hypercapnia (excess carbon dioxide in the blood). A flow rate of up to 3 liters per minute is commonly considered appropriate for a client with emphysema to maintain adequate oxygenation while minimizing the risk of complications.

This controlled approach allows for sufficient oxygen delivery without overwhelming the patient’s respiratory drive, making it vital to adhere to this standard. In contrast, higher flow rates could potentially lead to the aforementioned risks, making it less suitable for this patient population.