Final answer:
Hypoventilation causes a(n) C) increased minute volume and leads to hypercarbia.
Therefore, correct option is C) increased minute volume, hypercarbia.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hypoventilation refers to inadequate ventilation, resulting in decreased removal of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the body. Contrary to the options presented, hypoventilation leads to an increased minute volume (total volume of air breathed per minute) as the body attempts to compensate for the insufficient elimination of CO2. This incomplete removal of CO2 from the lungs causes hypercarbia, an elevated level of carbon dioxide in the blood. The increased minute volume is a response to maintaining the acid-base balance by expelling excess CO2.
In hypoventilation, the respiratory rate may decrease, but the tidal volume (amount of air breathed in and out in one cycle) increases to compensate for the inefficient clearance of CO2. Hypercarbia can result in respiratory acidosis, leading to a decrease in blood pH.
Understanding the relationship between hypoventilation, minute volume, and hypercarbia is critical in the clinical setting, especially in patients with respiratory disorders or compromised lung function. Prompt recognition and intervention are essential to restore adequate ventilation and prevent further complications associated with respiratory acidosis.
Therefore, correct option is C) increased minute volume, hypercarbia.