Normal arterial PCO2 range is?

Normal arterial PCO2 range is?

• A. 25-35 mmHg
• B. 35-45 mmHg
• C. 45-55 mmHg
• D. 15-25 mmHg

Answer: (B)

Normal arterial PCO2 is determined by the balance between CO2 production and elimination by the lungs. The body keeps PaCO2 within a narrow window, about 35 to 45 mmHg, to maintain stable acid-base status. Values in this range indicate adequate ventilation. If PaCO2 drops below 35, hyperventilation occurs and can lead to respiratory alkalosis; if it rises above 45, hypoventilation occurs and can cause respiratory acidosis. The 35–45 mmHg range is the standard normal range, while lower ranges reflect hypocapnia and higher ranges reflect hypercapnia.

Normal arterial PCO2 is determined by the balance between CO2 production and elimination by the lungs. The body keeps PaCO2 within a narrow window, about 35 to 45 mmHg, to maintain stable acid-base status. Values in this range indicate adequate ventilation. If PaCO2 drops below 35, hyperventilation occurs and can lead to respiratory alkalosis; if it rises above 45, hypoventilation occurs and can cause respiratory acidosis. The 35–45 mmHg range is the standard normal range, while lower ranges reflect hypocapnia and higher ranges reflect hypercapnia.