Critical Care

Question 1

Four causes of hypoxia?

Answer 1

1. Low PaO2
2. Low cardiac output/perfusion
3. Anemia
4. Metabolic/toxic - inability of cells to use O2 (i.e. CN toxicity)

Question 2

Six mechanisms of Hypoxemia?

Answer 2

1. Low inspired partial pressure of oxygen
2. Hypoventilation
3. V/Q mismatch
4. Shunt
5. Low mixed venous sat
6. Diffusion abnormality