A patient has chronic respiratory acidosis related to long-standing lung disease. Which of the following problems is the cause?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Chronic respiratory acidosis is a condition where there is an excess of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood due to inadequate exhalation of CO2. This typically occurs as a result of hypoventilation, which is characterized by breathing at an abnormally slow rate or shallow depth. In patients with long-standing lung disease, the ability to effectively exchange gases in the lungs is compromised, leading to a buildup of CO2 in the bloodstream and subsequent respiratory acidosis. Hyperventilation, on the other hand, would result in a decrease in CO2 levels in the blood, while the loss of acid or base by the kidneys is related to metabolic acidosis or alkalosis, not respiratory acidosis. Therefore, in this case, the primary problem causing chronic respiratory acidosis is hypoventilation.