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I'm not sure what the mechanism is, but the nurse is only partially right. An increase in pCO2 causes vasoconstriction in the pulmonary vasculature and vasodilation EVERYWHERE else. CO2 causes constriction in the pulmonary vasculature because an increase in pC02 sends the message there is damage/shunting here, sending blood here will not effectively oxygenate it so blood is preferentially sent to a different part of the lung where it will receive better oxygenation.
Carbon dioxide levels can elevate in COPD patients due to the inability to ventilate properly. This increased carbon dioxide level can lead to symptoms that are similar to acutely taking narcotics which has lead to the expression carbon dioxide narcosis. Symptoms include lethargy, confusion, disorientation, decreased sensations, etc. ...Read more