Physiological AdaptationQuestion 1669 of 2368

Which arterial blood gas result is consistent with hypercapnia?

  1. PaCO2 of 38 mmHg
  2. PaCO2 of 52 mmHg
  3. PaO2 of 90 mmHg
  4. HCO3 of 24 mEq/L
Show answer

Correct answer: PaCO2 of 52 mmHg

Hypercapnia is present when PaCO2 is higher than 45. The other values are within normal ranges.

Source: Nursing Skills, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2023), Oxygen Therapy: Hypoxia and Hypercapnia. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Practice the topic "Physiological Adaptation"

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026