PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

Increased CO2 and decreased pH indicates which of the following conditions?

1. Respiratory alkalosis

2. Metabolic acidosis

3. Respiratory acidosis

4. Metabolic alkalosis

The correct answer is: Respiratory acidosis

The presence of increased carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in conjunction with a decreased pH indicates respiratory acidosis. This condition typically arises when the body is unable to effectively eliminate carbon dioxide via respiration, leading to a buildup of CO2 in the blood. The accumulation of CO2 reacts with water to form carbonic acid, increasing the acidity of the blood and consequently lowering the pH. In respiratory acidosis, the respiratory system is compromised, which could stem from a variety of factors such as respiratory diseases, central nervous system disorders, or neuromuscular conditions that impair ability to breathe adequately. The physiological response is often characterized by an increase in hydrogen ions due to the conversion of CO2 to carbonic acid, leading to a more acidic internal environment. Understanding the interplay between CO2 levels and blood pH is crucial in diagnosing respiratory acidosis effectively, and in clinical practice, it guides the management and potential interventions needed to address the underlying cause of the compromised respiratory function.