A 54-Year-Old Man with a 30-Pack-Year Smoking History Undergoes Laparoscopic

A 54-year-old man with a 30-pack-year smoking history undergoes laparoscopic cholecystectomy after an episode of biliary pancreatitis.  On the third postoperative day, he is found to be mildly hypoxemic at 90% on room air.  His temperature is 36.7° C (98° F) , blood pressure is 130/80 mm Hg, heart rate is 90/min, and respirations are 22/min.  Lung auscultation shows decreased breath sounds at the bases.  Arterial blood gas analysis results are as follows: Which of the following most likely explains the observed findings?

A) Aspiration of gastric secretions
B) Bronchial wall edema and bronchospasm
C) Diaphragmatic paralysis
D) Impaired cough and shallow breathing
E) Ventilator-associated pneumonia

Correct Answer:

Verified

Unlock this answer now
Get Access to more Verified Answers free of charge

Access For Free