Question

the 68-year-old patient was admitted to the hospital medical floor with a diagnosis of chronic bronchitis. his spouse asks the nurse why his skin looks blue. how would you explain cyanosis to the patient and his spouse?

Explanation:

Cyanosis occurs when there is a reduced amount of oxygen - carrying hemoglobin (deoxygenated hemoglobin) in the blood. In chronic bronchitis, there can be airway obstruction and impaired gas exchange. This leads to less oxygen being bound to hemoglobin. When the concentration of deoxygenated hemoglobin in the blood reaches a certain level (usually around 5g/dL), it causes a bluish - purple discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes. It is a sign that the body is not getting enough oxygen as it should.

Answer:

Cyanosis is due to reduced oxygen - bound hemoglobin (more deoxygenated hemoglobin). In chronic bronchitis, gas exchange is impaired. When deoxygenated hemoglobin reaches about 5g/dL, it causes the blue - purple skin color. It indicates insufficient oxygen supply to the body.