In the context of assessing a patient's respiratory status, what would a high PaCO2 level indicate?

• A. Effective ventilation
• B. Inadequate ventilation
• C. Good oxygenation
• D. Normal lung function

Answer: (B)

A high level of arterial carbon dioxide (PaCO2) indicates inadequate ventilation. This is primarily because elevated PaCO2 suggests that the body is not effectively expelling carbon dioxide during respiration. In healthy individuals, ventilation is efficient and carbon dioxide is effectively removed, resulting in normal levels of PaCO2.

When PaCO2 is high, it indicates a buildup of carbon dioxide in the bloodstream, which can occur due to respiratory conditions that impair the lungs' ability to ventilate properly. Examples include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), respiratory muscle weakness, or severe asthma exacerbations, where the patient may fail to breathe adequately to meet their metabolic needs. Monitoring PaCO2 levels is essential in determining the adequacy of ventilation, and it helps guide interventions to improve respiratory function.