When looking at a patient’s ABG results, which change would indicate improvement after alveolar recruitment?

The increase in PaO2 would indicate improvement after alveolar recruitment because it demonstrates enhanced oxygenation of the blood. Alveolar recruitment typically aims to reopen collapsed or poorly ventilated alveoli, facilitating better gas exchange. As these areas become functional again, more oxygen reaches the blood, effectively raising the partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) measured in arterial blood gases (ABG).

A higher PaO2 reflects that more oxygen is being delivered to the bloodstream, indicating improved ventilation and perfusion matching throughout the lungs. This is a key marker of successful intervention in patients experiencing respiratory distress or conditions like atelectasis, where alveolar collapse is common.

Focus on improving oxygenation is critical, as it directly affects the patient’s overall oxygen delivery and can lead to better clinical outcomes, including improved patient comfort and decreased work of breathing. The other changes listed, such as changes in PaCO2 or pH, may not directly correlate with the effectiveness of alveolar recruitment, and an increased respiratory rate could signify a compensatory response rather than a direct improvement in the patient’s condition.