NURSING ANM AND GNM

Detailed explanation-1: -Generally, under normal physiologic conditions, the value of PCO2 ranges between 35 to 45 mmHg, or 4.7 to 6.0 kPa.

Detailed explanation-2: -The CO2 accumulates in the blood, so PCO2 rises, usually above 45 mmHg. This causes a decrease in blood pH, often reducing it below 7.35. To compensate for this decrease, the body has designed several mechanisms. If the respiratory centers are working, then they try to increase the rate and depth of ventilation.

Detailed explanation-3: -predicted PaCO2 = 1.5 x [HCO3-] + 8. If the actual measured PaCO2 is lower than predicted, there is a concomitant respiratory alkalosis; if it is higher than predicted there is a concomitant respiratory acidosis. There are some even EASIER ways to do this calculation however.