What condition results when hypoventilation causes carbon dioxide retention and blood pH to fall below 7.35?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Respiratory acidosis
- Step 1: Reduced alveolar ventilation (hypoventilation) impairs CO2 clearance, elevating arterial PCO2 (>45 mmHg). Step 2. Elevated PCO2 shifts the bicarbonate equilibrium to generate excess H+, dropping blood pH below 7.35 (respiratory acidosis). Answer: Respiratory acidosis. Why not the others: Respiratory alkalosis results from hyperventilation (low PCO2); Metabolic acidosis results from primary bicarbonate loss or fixed acid accumulation; Metabolic alkalosis results from vomiting or excess bicarbonate.
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