pink puffer

pink puffer

A descriptor for a Pt with COPD and severe emphysema, who have a pink complexion and dyspnea; PPs have ↑ residual lung capacity and volume, ↓ elastic recoil, ↓ expiratory flow rate and diffusing capacity and a ventilatory/perfusion–V/Q mismatch 2º to emphysema-related destruction of blood vessels Clinical SOB, hyperventilation ABGs Usually near normal due to compensatory hyperventilation; arterial pO₂ is in the mid-70s, pCO₂ is low to normal; PPs have ↑ tidal volume and retraction of accessory respiratory muscles. See Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Cf Blue bloater.