There is often a great deal of confusion about how to manage the care of a patient with COPD because of concern about inducing CO2 retention. This fear of causing CO2 retention sometimes causes providers to withhold or withdraw oxygen inappropriately. Understanding some of the respiratory physiology behind CO2 retention will allow you to make more informed decisions. This discussion will explain why withholding or withdrawing oxygen from a sick CO2 retainer may, or may not, be the wrong thing to do. Read More …