Critical Care Paramedic Practice Exam 2025 – All-in-One Guide to Mastering Your Certification!

A pCO2 level of less than 35 mmHg is indicative of respiratory alkalosis. This condition occurs when there is a decrease in carbon dioxide in the blood, typically due to hyperventilation. When a person hyperventilates, they breathe out an excess amount of carbon dioxide, leading to a rise in blood pH, which results in alkalosis.

Understanding the role of pCO2 in acid-base balance is crucial in critical care settings. Carbon dioxide is an acidic component of the blood; therefore, lower levels of pCO2 correspond to a higher blood pH, suggesting a more alkaline state. This contrasts with respiratory acidosis, where pCO2 would be elevated due to hypoventilation or respiratory failure, leading to an accumulation of carbon dioxide and a corresponding decrease in pH (acidosis).

In summary, a pCO2 level below 35 mmHg signifies a respiratory process where there is excessive elimination of carbon dioxide, supporting the diagnosis of respiratory alkalosis.