The SAQ's listed below are a sample of the vast bank of questions developed by AFEM to allow preparation for the 2015.1 exams.
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SAQ 3 - Respiratory

An Ambulance has brought in a 75 year old man with severe shortness of breath for the last 6 hrs. He is a heavy smoker with a history of COPD on regular Salbutamol nebulizers at home.
On arrival to ED, he looks distressed and diaphoretic with peripheral cyanosis.

His vital signs include:

HR 130  RR 40   BP 160/70   Temp 38.5C

His Arterial Blood Gas on 12 L O2 therapy:

PH         7.10  (7.35-7.45)

PO2       70    mmHg    (80-95)

PCo2     92     mmHg    (35-45)

HCo2     42     mmol      (22-28)

O2 Sat   88%

Questions:

1-    List 4 key abnormalities in the above gas and it’s clinical implications.                                                                                  (2)

2-    List 3 bronchodilator agents, doses and 2 possible side effects for each drug that can be used in his treatment.     (4)
                                                                                                                                
3.   Name 4 factors that you would assess when considering initiating BIPAP ventilation for this patient. Provide a short explanation for each.                                                                                                                                                                                         (4)
                                                                                                                
4-    Despite your NIV trial, the patient has deteriorated further and requires endotracheal intubation and mechanical                        ventilation.
        List 5 ventilation strategies for this patient                                                                                                                                       (2.5)                                                                                                                                                
                                                                                                                                                                                                                        [12.5 =12.5min]

Answer