By vgreene, 13 February, 2017 Resp unit/MICU admit indications: severe SOB not responding to initial emergency tx, Δ MS; persistent/worsening PO2 (
By vgreene, 13 February, 2017 Eval/tx assoc conditions (eg, HF, arrhythmias, PE); monitor fluid balance (eg, diuretics, if needed); nutrition; consider SQ heparin or LMWH for thromboembolism prophylaxis
By vgreene, 13 February, 2017 If ↑work of breathing or impaired gas exchange: Consider ventilation based on indications;6 noninvasive mode preferred if not contraindicated; if acute hypoxemic resp failure, high-flow O2 by nasal cannula may reduce need for intubation and may be an
By vgreene, 13 February, 2017 Combine short-acting BDs:3 Increase dose and/or frequency, combining SABA (albuterol, levalbuterol) + SAMA (ipratropium). Use spacer or NEB.3 Switch to long-acting BD3 once stable
By vgreene, 13 February, 2017 Supplemental O21 targeted to 88%-92% sat; if on O2, ✓frequent ABG/VBG2 for ↑PaCO2/acidosis
