If you have a loved one who's weaning or a possible candidate for weaning, you should as a general rule ask the doctor, nurse or RT what the blood gas values are. Compare to list below. A blood gas test is done periodically by drawing blood. A high CO2 level means the lungs are not ridding the CO2 efficiently. This could be due to reduced lung capacity.
Lung function can improve with recovery.
The body can also remove CO2 by metabolizing it in the blood. If the blood pH is okay then CO2 metabolism is occuring. It is important to do some PT or movement excercise during weaning to help the body to metabolize the CO2. Facilities that expect the patient or resident to do some PT or movement excercise during weaning usually have good weaning rates. The reader is advised to always seek the advice of their physician prior to changing any treatment or to receive answers to questions regarding a specific medical condition.