Medical Emergencies · single question
A patient experiences hyperventilation. What acid-base disturbance results?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Respiratory alkalosis
✓ A) Respiratory alkalosis is correct.
Hyperventilation = increased respiratory rate → excessive CO₂ elimination → decreased PaCO₂ (hypocapnia) → pH rises above 7.45 = RESPIRATORY ALKALOSIS. Clinical manifestations: dizziness, tingling (paresthesia), carpopedal spasm, tetany (due to decreased ionized calcium from alkalosis). Management: breathe into a paper bag to re-inhale CO₂, or calm the patient. The opposite — hypoventilation — causes respiratory ACIDOSIS.
Hyperventilation = increased respiratory rate → excessive CO₂ elimination → decreased PaCO₂ (hypocapnia) → pH rises above 7.45 = RESPIRATORY ALKALOSIS. Clinical manifestations: dizziness, tingling (paresthesia), carpopedal spasm, tetany (due to decreased ionized calcium from alkalosis). Management: breathe into a paper bag to re-inhale CO₂, or calm the patient. The opposite — hypoventilation — causes respiratory ACIDOSIS.
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