A 52-Year-Old Man Is Brought to the Emergency Department After

question 158

Multiple Choice

A 52-year-old man is brought to the emergency department after being found unresponsive on the street.  The patient's medical history is unknown.  Temperature is 36.2 C (97.2 F) , blood pressure is 108/62 mm Hg, and pulse is 72/min.  On physical examination, he is unresponsive to verbal and tactile stimuli but moans to deep sternal rub.  An arterial blood gas analysis on room air shows a partial pressure of oxygen of 60 mm Hg.  The partial pressure of oxygen in his alveoli is calculated to be 68 mm Hg.  Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's symptoms?

• A)Alveolar hypoventilation
• B)Dead space ventilation
• C)Diffusion impairment
• D)Intrapulmonary shunt
• E)Left-to-right shunt

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Definitions:

Industrialized Agriculture

An approach to farming that relies on heavy machinery, chemical inputs, and large-scale monoculture practices to increase productivity and output.

Developed Countries

Nations that have a high level of industrialization, a high standard of living, and a high Human Development Index (HDI), marked by well-developed infrastructure, healthcare, and education systems.

Domesticated Animal Species

Animal species that have been selectively bred and genetically adapted over generations to live closely with humans, often for work, food, or as pets.

Animal Products

Goods derived from the bodies of animals, including meat, dairy, wool, and leather.