Question

A patient with COPD should present with a PO2 of:

A) 35-45 mmHg.

B) 70-80 mmHg.

C) 50-60 mmHg.

D) 94-96 mmHg.

Answer 1

In patients with COPD, the blood PO2 is expected to be lower than normal due to impaired gas exchange, with values typically around 50-60 mmHg being suggestive of the condition.

Step-by-step explanation:

A patient with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) typically presents with a decreased partial pressure of oxygen (PO2). In a healthy individual, the alveolar PO2 is usually around 100 mmHg, which promotes the diffusion of oxygen from the alveoli into the blood. However, in a patient with COPD, the gas exchange capability of the lungs is compromised. This can lead to a lower PO2 in the blood. Among the options provided, a PO2 of C) 50-60 mmHg is a representation of the expected compromised values in a COPD patient.