Medical Surgical Assignment Exam HESI Related

Review Medical Surgical Assignment Exam HESI related questions and content

A client who is experiencing respiratory distress is admitted with respiratory acidosis. Which pathophysiological process supports the client's respiratory acidosis?

  • A. Low oxygen levels are present in the blood.
  • B. High levels of carbon dioxide have accumulated in the blood.
  • C. Increased bicarbonate levels are causing alkalosis.
  • D. Respiratory rate is increased, causing hyperventilation.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: High levels of carbon dioxide in the blood lead to respiratory acidosis due to inadequate ventilation. The correct answer is B. In respiratory acidosis, the accumulation of carbon dioxide in the blood occurs due to inadequate exhalation, leading to acidosis. Choice A is incorrect as low oxygen levels are related to hypoxemia, not respiratory acidosis. Choice C is incorrect as increased bicarbonate levels would lead to alkalosis, not acidosis. Choice D is incorrect as an increased respiratory rate causing hyperventilation would actually help decrease carbon dioxide levels, not lead to respiratory acidosis.