Respiratory Failure
Respiratory failure is the inability of the respiratory system to maintain normal blood oxygenation (PaO 2 ), elimination of carbon dioxide (PaCO 2 ) and pH Adequate ventilation problem caused by diffusion or perfusion. Respiratory failure is inadequate gas exchange to hypoxia, hypercapnia (increased arterial carbon dioxide concentration), and acidosis. Respiratory failure occurs when the exchange of O 2 to CO 2 in the lungs can not maintain the rate of O 2 consumption and CO 2 formation in the body's cells causing pO 2 <> 2> 45 mmHg (hypercapnia) (Smeltzer, C Susane, 2001) Causes / Etiology 1. The central nervous system depression Resulting in respiratory failure due to inadequate ventilation. Respiratory centers that control breathing, located below the brain stem (pons and medulla) so slow and shallow breathing. 2. Primary neurological disorder May hamper respiratory function. Impulses arising in the respiratory center spreads through the nerves that extend from ...