A PCO2 of 60 mm Hg most directly indicates which primary disturbance?

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Prepare for the NMNC 4510 Concept Synthesis Test. Enhance your understanding with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Get exam-ready today!

Multiple Choice

A PCO2 of 60 mm Hg most directly indicates which primary disturbance?

Explanation:
A PCO2 of 60 mm Hg shows the lungs aren’t expelling CO2 effectively, pointing to hypoventilation. CO2 combines with water to form carbonic acid, which increases hydrogen ions and lowers pH. This is a respiratory problem, specifically respiratory acidosis. (Normal arterial PCO2 is about 35–45 mm Hg.) The body may compensate over time by raising bicarbonate via the kidneys, but the immediate primary disturbance indicated by the elevated CO2 is respiratory acidosis.

A PCO2 of 60 mm Hg shows the lungs aren’t expelling CO2 effectively, pointing to hypoventilation. CO2 combines with water to form carbonic acid, which increases hydrogen ions and lowers pH. This is a respiratory problem, specifically respiratory acidosis. (Normal arterial PCO2 is about 35–45 mm Hg.) The body may compensate over time by raising bicarbonate via the kidneys, but the immediate primary disturbance indicated by the elevated CO2 is respiratory acidosis.

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