Respiratory System NCLEX Practice Questions Related

Review Respiratory System NCLEX Practice Questions related questions and content

In the lungs

  • A. PCO2 in the alveoli is the same as that in the capillaries
  • B. PO2 in the alveoli is the same as that in the capillaries
  • C. PCO2 in the alveoli is higher than that in the capillaries
  • D. PCO2 in the alveoli is lower than that in the capillaries
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because in the lungs, during gas exchange, carbon dioxide (CO2) is removed from the blood and exhaled. This leads to a lower PCO2 in the alveoli compared to the capillaries. The concentration gradient drives the diffusion of CO2 from the capillaries to the alveoli. Options A and B are incorrect because the partial pressure of CO2 (PCO2) and oxygen (PO2) differ between the alveoli and capillaries due to gas exchange. Option C is also incorrect as PCO2 is lower in the alveoli to facilitate the removal of CO2 from the blood.