Questions About the Respiratory System Related

Review Questions About the Respiratory System related questions and content

The nurse recognizes that a rising PaCO2 level in a COPD patient means that:

  • A. There is more arterial oxygen available than is needed.
  • B. The ventilation-perfusion ratio is becoming balanced.
  • C. Respiratory acidosis has begun.
  • D. The anticholinergics are effective.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why answer C is correct:
1. In COPD, impaired lung function leads to inadequate ventilation and CO2 retention.
2. Rising PaCO2 indicates inadequate CO2 removal, leading to respiratory acidosis.
3. Respiratory acidosis is characterized by low pH and high PaCO2 levels.
4. This condition can worsen COPD symptoms and lead to respiratory failure.
Summary: Option A is incorrect as rising PaCO2 indicates hypoxemia. Option B is incorrect as ventilation-perfusion imbalance worsens in COPD. Option D is incorrect as anticholinergics do not directly affect PaCO2 levels in COPD.