Arterial Blood Gas Analysis · Pathology

A primary increase in PaCO2 with decreased pH indicates:

  1. Metabolic acidosis
  2. Respiratory acidosis
  3. Metabolic alkalosis
  4. Respiratory alkalosis
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Correct answer: Respiratory acidosis

An elevated PaCO2 causes a drop in pH, indicating respiratory acidosis. This occurs due to hypoventilation and CO2 retention.

Difficulty: Medium Question 2 of 20

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