The arterial-to-end-tidal CO2 and the arterial-to-maximum expiratory partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2) gradients are both elevated and equal to each other. This finding is consistent with:
a. chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
b. left-sided heart failure.
c. esophageal intubation.
d. pulmonary embolism.
ANS: D
Normally, the difference between the PCO2 measured at the end of a maximum exhalation and the PaCO2 is minimal. Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or left-sided heart failure do not show an increase in this difference. However, patients with pulmonary embolism show an increased gradient.
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Capillary puncture is being increasingly used for which of the following reasons?
A. Instruments have been developed that require only a drop or two of blood. B. It is easy to perform for POCT. C. The earlobe is an accessible puncture site. D. Only (a) and (b) are true. E. All are true (a-c).