What is the normal range for arterial PaCO2?

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Multiple Choice

What is the normal range for arterial PaCO2?

Explanation:
PaCO2 in arterial blood shows how effectively the lungs remove carbon dioxide, reflecting the balance between CO2 production and alveolar ventilation. The normal arterial PaCO2 is about 35–45 mmHg. Values above 45 indicate hypoventilation or excess CO2 production, while values below 35 indicate hyperventilation. This range is a standard reference for interpreting blood gases and understanding acid–base status, since PaCO2 directly influences blood pH: higher PaCO2 tends toward acidosis, lower PaCO2 toward alkalosis, with metabolic compensation possible.

PaCO2 in arterial blood shows how effectively the lungs remove carbon dioxide, reflecting the balance between CO2 production and alveolar ventilation. The normal arterial PaCO2 is about 35–45 mmHg. Values above 45 indicate hypoventilation or excess CO2 production, while values below 35 indicate hyperventilation. This range is a standard reference for interpreting blood gases and understanding acid–base status, since PaCO2 directly influences blood pH: higher PaCO2 tends toward acidosis, lower PaCO2 toward alkalosis, with metabolic compensation possible.

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