Which of the following is the characteristic treatment for respiratory acidosis?
A) improve ventilation
B) administer bicarbonate
C) reduce respiratory rate, allow rise in PCO₂
D) reduce respiratory rate, allow decrease in PCO₂
E) administer ammonium chloride

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The characteristic treatment for respiratory acidosis is to improve ventilation to increase the elimination of CO₂ and decrease the level of carbonic acid in the blood. This can be done through mechanical ventilation or by addressing the underlying cause of inadequate ventilation (e.g. treating a pulmonary disorder or removing an airway obstruction). Administering bicarbonate or reducing respiratory rate can help to correct metabolic acidosis, but would not be the primary treatment for respiratory acidosis. Administering ammonium chloride would be contraindicated as it would further acidify the blood.

Which of the Following Is the Characteristic Treatment for Respiratory