What is the normal range for PaCO2 in mmHg?

Study for the Pathophysiology Pulmonary Exam. Explore detailed questions with hints and explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your exam and enhance your respiratory pathophysiology knowledge!

Multiple Choice

What is the normal range for PaCO2 in mmHg?

Explanation:
The normal range for arterial carbon dioxide pressure (PaCO2) is considered to be 35-45 mmHg. This range is vital for maintaining the body's acid-base balance and reflects the effectiveness of pulmonary ventilation. Within this range, a PaCO2 level at the lower end (35 mmHg) indicates effective removal of carbon dioxide, while levels approaching the upper end (45 mmHg) suggest that the body is balancing CO2 production and elimination effectively. Values outside this range can indicate respiratory inadequacy or metabolic disturbances—lower values may signify hyperventilation or respiratory alkalosis, while higher values can indicate hypoventilation or respiratory acidosis. Recognizing the normal range is essential for evaluating respiratory function and diagnosing respiratory conditions, thus making the correct range of 35-45 mmHg critical in clinical practice.

The normal range for arterial carbon dioxide pressure (PaCO2) is considered to be 35-45 mmHg. This range is vital for maintaining the body's acid-base balance and reflects the effectiveness of pulmonary ventilation.

Within this range, a PaCO2 level at the lower end (35 mmHg) indicates effective removal of carbon dioxide, while levels approaching the upper end (45 mmHg) suggest that the body is balancing CO2 production and elimination effectively. Values outside this range can indicate respiratory inadequacy or metabolic disturbances—lower values may signify hyperventilation or respiratory alkalosis, while higher values can indicate hypoventilation or respiratory acidosis.

Recognizing the normal range is essential for evaluating respiratory function and diagnosing respiratory conditions, thus making the correct range of 35-45 mmHg critical in clinical practice.

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