Question

"Respiratory acidosis is characterized by

a. pH greater than 7.45 and PCO2 less than 35 mm Hg
b. pH greater than 7.45 and PCO2 greater than 35 mm Hg
c. pH less than 7.35 and PCO2 greater than 45 mm Hg
d. pH less than 7.35 and PCO2 less than 45 mm Hg

Answer 1

Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a blood pH less than 7.35 and a PCO2 greater than 45 mm Hg. It occurs when the respiratory system cannot adequately remove CO2, leading to an increase in blood carbonic acid levels.

Step-by-step explanation:

Respiratory acidosis is a condition where there is an excess of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood, leading to a decreased pH (less than 7.35). It is characterized by a blood pH less than 7.35 and a partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2) greater than 45 mm Hg. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is c. pH less than 7.35 and PCO2 greater than 45 mm Hg.

Respiratory acidosis occurs when the lungs cannot remove enough CO2 from the body, which leads to an increased level of carbonic acid in the blood. This condition can result from respiratory disorders like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or severe asthma, where the airway obstruction impairs gas exchange.