Determine NIV eligibility for acute hypercapnic COPD exacerbation. Indications: pH 7.25-7.35 + PaCO2 > 45 mmHg + RR > 23 on optimised medical therapy. Absolute contraindications: inability to protect airway, facial trauma, haemodynamic instability, severe agitation.
NIV is indicated in acute hypercapnic respiratory failure when there is respiratory acidosis (pH <7.35 with PaCO₂ >45 mmHg), severe breathlessness with increased work of breathing, or hypoxemia. It is contraindicated when the patient cannot protect the airway, is hemodynamically unstable, has impaired consciousness, or has facial or upper-airway conditions that prevent a sealed mask fit.
This is a decision aid, not a substitute for clinical judgment. NIV should be initiated in a monitored setting with the capacity for escalation to invasive ventilation if the patient deteriorates or fails to improve within 1–2 hours.
Enter the values for the scenario you are assessing. Determine NIV eligibility for acute hypercapnic COPD exacerbation. Indications: pH 7.25-7.35 + PaCO2 > 45 mmHg + RR > 23 on optimised medical therapy. Absolute contraindications: inability to protect airway, facial trauma, haemodynamic instability, severe agitation. Use the niv copd eligibility result to inform your calculation.