A falling blood pH and a rising partial pressure of carbon dioxide due to pneumonia or emphysema indicates ________.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A falling blood pH and rising partial pressure of carbon dioxide are indicative of respiratory acidosis, which can occur in cases of pneumonia or emphysema where there is impaired gas exchange in the lungs leading to an accumulation of carbon dioxide in the blood. Metabolic acidosis and alkalosis pertain to changes in the body's bicarbonate and/or electrolyte levels, unrelated to respiratory function.

A Falling Blood PH and a Rising Partial Pressure of Carbon