In the context of respiratory failure, what is the recommended action when CO2 is elevated?

In the context of elevated CO2 levels, calling respiratory therapy is the most appropriate action. Elevated carbon dioxide indicates that the patient is potentially hypoventilating or unable to adequately remove CO2 from their system. This situation often requires specific interventions to manage ventilation and improve the patient's ability to expel CO2.

Respiratory therapists have specialized skills and equipment to assess lung function and implement strategies, like non-invasive ventilation or educational interventions regarding breathing techniques, that can help reduce CO2 levels effectively. This could include the use of CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) or BiPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure) as required, depending on the patient's condition.

Providing oxygen immediately, while important for patients with respiratory failure, does not address the underlying cause of CO2 retention. It may mask the issue without delivering the necessary intervention to effectively lower CO2 levels.

Performing chest physiotherapy can assist in clearing secretions, but it is not primarily aimed at correcting hypercapnia (elevated CO2). Similarly, administering bronchodilators is useful for certain respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD, but if CO2 levels are rising, it may not be the immediate solution compared to the more comprehensive care provided by respiratory