Which of the following is the normal drive for ventilation?
A. Surfactants
B. Bicarbonate
C. Increasing PCO2
D. Increasing PO2
Answer (2)
The normal drive for ventilation is primarily determined by increasing levels of carbon dioxide (PCO2) in the blood. Elevated PCO2 stimulates the respiratory centers in the brain to initiate breathing. In contrast, other factors like surfactants, bicarbonate levels, and oxygen levels (PO2) do not primarily regulate this drive. ;
The normal drive for ventilation is primarily due to increasing levels of carbon dioxide (PCO2) in the blood, which stimulates the respiratory centers in the brain. While low oxygen levels (PO2) can also inspire breathing, the body responds first to elevated CO2 levels. Therefore, the chosen answer is C. Increasing PCO2.
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