A sudden increase in end-tidal CO2 occurs in a mechanically ventilated patient. A repeat analysis yields the same results. Which of the following situations might account for these readings? 

The respiratory therapist assists with elective intubation of a patient with myasthenia gravis in the ICU. While providing manual ventilation, the self-inflating resuscitation device becomes difficult to compress. Which of the following would the therapist do FIRST?

A pulse oximeter provides an accurate indication of a patient’s oxygenation status in which of the following situations? 1. Polycythemia 2. Pulmonary hypertension 3. Congestive heart failure 4. Carbon monoxide poisoning

What is the normal urine output in an adult patient?

A 70 kg (154 lb) patient with emphysema receives mechanical ventilation. Current ventilator settings are as follows: SIMV VC, Vt 550 mL, RR 12/min, FiO2 30%. The patient is awake and alert and does not appear to be in any distress. The total RR is 14/min. ABG results are: pH 7.35, PaCO2 58, PaO2 65, HCO3- 30. His SpO2 is 94% and MIP is -30 cmH2O. This patient is most likely:

The respiratory therapist prepares to assist with the intubation of an adult male patient. The anesthesiologist resident wishes to administer a neuromuscular blocker that has a fast onset and short duration. Which of the following should the therapist recommend? 

The respiratory therapist prepares to assist with a bronchoscopy for a patient in the ICU currently receiving mechanical ventilation in the A/C VC mode. The therapist should anticipate addressing all of the following considerations EXCEPT

Dynamic hyperinflation is a major concern when using Assist/Control Volume Control ventilation in patients with which of the following conditions? 

An adult patient with asthma is receiving a mixture of 70% helium and 30% oxygen through a non-rebreathing mask with an oxygen flowmeter set at 10 L/min. What is the actual flow being delivered to the mask?

A patient with a history of asthma presents to the ED in severe respiratory distress with increased accessory muscle use. Vital signs are: HR 110/min, RR 32/min, and SpO2 of 88% on room air. Bilateral expiratory wheezes are heard on auscultation. The respiratory therapist should recommend initiating: