[Expert Solution]: A 54-year old woman, 5’3”, 188 lbs, is…

A 54-year old woman, 5’3”, 188 lbs, is admitted for a Pneumonia. She progressively requires more oxygen to maintain her SpO2 > 93% as the physician has ordered. She is currently on a Venturi Mask, 80%, 8 L/min. Her vitals include BP 110/70, HR 122, RR 30, Temp 38.1 C. Auscultation reveals coarse crackles throughout lung fields. ABG initially: pH 7.54, PaCO2 28, PaO2 55, HCO3 25. CXR shows unilateral infiltrates in the right middle and right lower lobes with a possible Kerley B line identified. There are no tubes or lines; low lung volumes are noted in the bases. WBC 16.2, Hgb 13.5, Hct 38%.