Respiratory

Question 1

Give 4 key indications (BTS guideline) for the use of non-invasive ventilation in acute respiratory failure.

Answer 1

• COPD with respiratory acidosis pH 7.25-7.35
• Type II respiratory failure secondary to chest wall deformity, neuromuscular disease or obstructive sleep apnoea
• Cardiogenic pulmonary oedema unresponsive to CPAP
• Weaning from tracheal intubation

Question 2

Give 4 characteristic features of pneumococcal pneumonia (Streptococcus pneumoniae).

Answer 2

• Rapid onset
• High fever
• Pleuritic chest pain
• Herpes labialis (cold sores)