Medical Emergencies · single question
A patient has hyperventilation. This leads to:
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Correct answer: D. Respiratory alkalosis
- A. Metabolic acidosis results from acid accumulation or bicarbonate loss — not from hyperventilation.
- B. Respiratory acidosis results from CO2 RETENTION (hypoventilation/COPD) — the opposite of hyperventilation.
- C. Metabolic alkalosis results from bicarbonate excess (vomiting, loop diuretics) — not from hyperventilation.
- D. Hyperventilation → excessive CO2 elimination → decreased PaCO2 (hypocapnia) → RESPIRATORY ALKALOSIS (increased blood pH). Symptoms include: tingling/paresthesias (especially perioral and hands), lightheadedness, tetany, carpopedal spasm. Treatment: have the patient breathe into a paper bag (rebreathe CO2) or reassure and coach slow breathing.
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