Question

An infant at 36 weeks of gestation has increasing respirations (80 to 100 breaths/min with marked substernal retractions). The infant is given oxygen by continuous nasal positive airway pressure. Which arterial oxygen level would indicate hypoxia?

a. PaO₂ of 67
b. PaO₂ of 89
c. PaO₂ of 45
d. PaO₂ of 73

Answer 1

Among the given options, a PaO2 of 45 indicates hypoxia in an infant at 36 weeks of gestation experiencing respiratory distress. This level is below the normal range of arterial oxygen, and urgent medical care is required.

Step-by-step explanation:

An infant at 36 weeks of gestation with increased respirations and marked substernal retractions is showing signs of respiratory distress and possibly hypoxia. When given oxygen by continuous nasal positive airway pressure, the arterial oxygen level indicating hypoxia among the given options would be a PaO₂ of 45. This level is well below the normal range for arterial oxygen, which is typically considered to be around 75 to 100 mmHg. In such cases, immediate medical attention is essential to ensure the infant receives the necessary respiratory support to improve oxygenation levels.