An intubated patient receiving 30% oxygen has a SpO2 of 80% and ETCO2 of 40 torr. After administration of 50% oxygen for 30 minutes, the respiratory therapist notes that the SpO2 rises to 98% and the ETCO2 remains stable at 40 torr. The major cause of hypoxemia in this patient is
A. hypoventilation.
B. shunt.
C. ventilation/perfusion mismatch.
D. increased deadspace.
Answer: C. ventilation/perfusion mismatch.
Health Professions
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