Question

Respiratory alkalosis is the result of:

a) carbon dioxide retention
b) slow and shallow respirations
c) increased hydrogen ion production
d) excess carbon dioxide elimination

Answer 1

Respiratory alkalosis occurs due to a deficiency in carbonic acid/CO₂ levels in the blood, generally caused by excess carbon dioxide elimination via hyperventilation. Hyperventilation can be triggered by stress, infections, hypoxia, and certain toxicities.

Step-by-step explanation:

Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a condition where the blood becomes overly alkaline. This alkalosis is caused due to a deficiency in carbonic acid and CO₂ levels in the blood, which results from the elimination of too much CO₂ through excess carbon dioxide elimination from the lungs. Common causes include hyperventilation due to emotional upset, fever, infections, hypoxia, and elevated catecholamine levels or salicylate toxicity from an aspirin overdose. Renal compensation may follow, with the kidneys excreting more bicarbonate to attempt to correct the pH imbalance.