What causes respiratory acidosis in a client?

Respiratory acidosis primarily occurs due to an accumulation of carbon dioxide in the body, leading to an increase in acidity in the blood. This retention of carbon dioxide can result from various conditions that impair gas exchange or ventilation, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), severe asthma, or central nervous system depression. When the body is unable to effectively eliminate carbon dioxide through exhalation, it leads to elevated levels in the bloodstream, which in turn lowers the pH and creates an acidic environment.

Understanding this mechanism is crucial for recognizing the signs and symptoms of respiratory acidosis, as well as for implementing appropriate interventions to correct the underlying cause, such as improving ventilation through medications or supportive care. Managing carbon dioxide levels is key to restoring normal acid-base balance in clients experiencing this condition.