Final answer:
Inadequate flow rate in a nonrebreather mask resulting in rebreathing of CO₂ leads to respiratory acidosis, where the body compensates by altering the rate and volume of respiration.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the changes in respiration when a patient is rebreathing carbon dioxide, due to inadequate flow rate in a nonrebreather mask. When a patient rebreathes CO₂, a condition known as respiratory acidosis may develop, characterized by an excess of carbon dioxide in the bloodstream. Initial response to this condition is an increase in respiratory rate (hyperpnea) to expel more CO₂ and decrease blood CO₂ levels, without significantly affecting oxygen levels. The body attempts to compensate for this acid-base imbalance, initially keeping bicarbonate levels normal, but over time, if compensation continues, bicarbonate levels may increase to restore the bicarbonate to carbonic acid/CO₂ ratio.
In scenarios of low alveolar ventilation, the respiratory system adapts by increasing the respiratory rate and decreasing the volume of air per breath. Conversely, with high ventilation, the respiratory rate also increases, but the volume of air per breath decreases. This dynamic helps maintain adequate gas exchange and stabilize the internal environment.