Figure 1. PaCO2 vs. alveolar ventilation (VA).
The relationship is asymptotic: as PaCO2 rises, it takes less of a drop in PaCO2
to effect a further increase in PaCO2. This relationship is shown for carbon
dioxide production rates of 200 ml/min and 300 ml/min. Also, note that an
increase in carbon dioxide production when VA is fixed will result in an increase
in PaCO2. See PCO2 equation for further discussion.
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