A newly graduated nurse is admitting a patient with a long history of emphysema. The new nurses preceptor is
going over the patients past lab reports with the new nurse. The nurse takes note that the patients PaCO2 has been
between 56 and 64 mm Hg for several months. The preceptor asks the new nurse why they will be cautious
administering oxygen. What is the new nurses best response?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Using oxygen may result in the patient developing carbon dioxide narcosis and hypoxemia. In patients with chronic emphysema, their respiratory drive is often triggered by low oxygen levels rather than high carbon dioxide levels. Administering supplemental oxygen can suppress their respiratory drive, leading to carbon dioxide retention (carbon dioxide narcosis) and worsening hypoxemia. This phenomenon is known as "hypoxic drive."
Choice A is incorrect because administering oxygen does not lead to a dramatic rise in calcium levels due to pituitary stimulation. Choice B is incorrect because administering oxygen does not typically increase intracranial pressure or cause confusion. Choice C is incorrect because administering oxygen does not directly cause hyperventilation and acidosis in this scenario.