Which of the following combinations in arterial blood could cause an increase in the respiratory rate?
A) Increased PCO2, decreased arterial pressure, decreased pH, decreased PO2
B) Increased PCO2, decreased arterial pressure, increased pH, decreased PO2
C) Decreased PCO2, decreased arterial pressure, increased pH, increased PO2
D) Decreased PCO2, decreased arterial pressure, decreased pH, decreased PO2

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An increase in PCO2, decrease in arterial pressure (such as due to hypovolemia), and decrease in pH (such as due to acidosis) are all stimuli for an increase in the respiratory rate. A decrease in PO2 alone is not a strong enough stimulus to cause an increase in respiratory rate, but it may contribute to the overall respiratory response when combined with other stimuli. Therefore, option A is the most appropriate choice.

Which of the Following Combinations in Arterial Blood Could Cause