Final answer:
Hypoventilation is a condition characterized by decreased ventilation and high levels of carbon dioxide (paCO2) in the blood. The paCO2 level in hypoventilation would be higher than the normal level of 40 mmHg. It can be caused by respiratory muscle weakness, lung diseases, or certain medications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hypoventilation is a condition characterized by decreased ventilation, leading to abnormally high levels of carbon dioxide (paCO2) in the blood. In normal circumstances, the paCO2 level is about 40 mmHg.
However, in hypoventilation, the paCO2 level would be higher than 40 mmHg. Hypoventilation can occur due to various factors such as respiratory muscle weakness, lung diseases, or certain medications.