A 43-Year-Old, Previously Healthy Man Is Hospitalized Due to Acute

A 43-year-old, previously healthy man is hospitalized due to acute pancreatitis.  On day 3, he develops respiratory distress.  The patient is transferred to the intensive care unit and intubated.  His ideal body weight is 70 kg (154 lb) .  Initial ventilator settings are as follows: Ten minutes after the patient is intubated, blood pressure is 110/70 mm Hg and pulse is 90/min.  Results from arterial blood gas testing are as follows: Which of the following is the best next step in management of this patient?

A) Decrease the FiO₂
B) Decrease the positive end-expiratory pressure
C) Decrease the respiratory rate
D) Increase the respiratory rate
E) Increase the tidal volume

Correct Answer:

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