Which condition is most likely to result from prolonged hypoventilation?

Prolonged hypoventilation leads to a retention of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the bloodstream. When hypoventilation occurs, the body does not exhale sufficient amounts of CO2, causing its levels to rise. This increase in CO2 levels results in the formation of carbonic acid, which subsequently lowers the pH of the blood, leading to a condition known as respiratory acidosis.

In respiratory acidosis, the primary issue is the failure of the lungs to adequately eliminate CO2, creating an imbalance in the body's acid-base homeostasis. This can occur in various situations, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), sedation, or neuromuscular disorders that impair respiratory function.

Understanding this process is essential for paramedics and other healthcare professionals, as they must recognize the signs and symptoms of respiratory acidosis in patients and provide appropriate interventions, such as increasing ventilation or administering supplemental oxygen.