What ABG finding is expected in respiratory acidosis?

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Multiple Choice

What ABG finding is expected in respiratory acidosis?

Explanation:
When ventilation is reduced, carbon dioxide is retained and combines with water to form carbonic acid, which lowers the blood pH. The defining ABG pattern for respiratory acidosis is an elevated PaCO2 (greater than 45 mm Hg) with a decreased pH (less than 7.35). The body may compensate over time by increasing bicarbonate, especially in chronic cases, but the key feature is CO2-driven acidemia. So the expected ABG finding is high PaCO2 with low pH.

When ventilation is reduced, carbon dioxide is retained and combines with water to form carbonic acid, which lowers the blood pH. The defining ABG pattern for respiratory acidosis is an elevated PaCO2 (greater than 45 mm Hg) with a decreased pH (less than 7.35). The body may compensate over time by increasing bicarbonate, especially in chronic cases, but the key feature is CO2-driven acidemia. So the expected ABG finding is high PaCO2 with low pH.

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