When creating a nursing care plan and management for a client with impaired gas exchange, the primary goal is to optimize oxygenation and ensure adequate ventilation. Smokers and clients suffering from pulmonary problems, prolonged periods of immobility, and chest or upper abdominal incisions are also at risk for this condition.

Obesity in COPD and the impact of excessive fat mass on lung function put clients at greater risk for hypoxia. The total pulmonary blood flow in older adults is lower than in young subjects. High altitudes, hypoventilation, and altered oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood from reduced hemoglobin are other factors that affect gas exchange. Hypoxemia results from reduced PaO2 (Powers & Dharmoon, 2023).Ĭonditions that cause changes or collapse of the alveoli (e.g., atelectasis, pneumonia, pulmonary edema, and acute respiratory distress syndrome) impair ventilation. A dead space results in a high ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) ratio, decreasing alveolar ventilation and reducing PaO2 for functional alveoli. Dead space is the volume of a breath that does not participate in gas exchange. These concentration differences must be maintained by ventilation (airflow) of the alveoli and perfusion ( blood flow) of the pulmonary capillaries.Ī balance between the two exists typically, but certain conditions can alter this balance causing gas exchange impairment. Diffusion of oxygen and carbon dioxide occurs passively, according to their concentration differences across the alveolar-capillary barrier. Gas is exchanged between the alveoli and the pulmonary capillaries via diffusion. Providing interventions for the relief of anxiety.For clients with mechanical ventilation and endotracheal intubation.Identification of worsening respiratory symptoms.Reducing the risk of respiratory infection or failure Assessment of respirations and pulmonary function.Get to know the nursing assessment, interventions, goals, and nursing diagnosis specific to inadequate ventilation/perfusion by referring to this comprehensive guide. In this nursing care plan and management guide, learn how to provide care for patients with with impaired balance of gas exchange.

Alveolar dead space effect on v/q