A 45-Year-Old Man Comes to the Emergency Department Due to Severe

A 45-year-old man comes to the emergency department due to severe dyspnea and chest discomfort that began earlier in the day.  The dyspnea has been worsening throughout the day and has been present at rest.  He reports no inciting trauma.  The patient has no other medical conditions and takes no medications.  He has a 20-pack-year smoking history and does not use alcohol or illicit drugs.  Temperature is 36.7 C (98 F) , blood pressure is 110/60 mm Hg, and pulse is 96/min.  Arterial blood gas drawn on room air shows an arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO₂) of 54 mm Hg and an arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO₂) of 26 mm Hg.  Which of the following processes is most likely occurring in this patient?

A) Alveolar hyperventilation
B) Decreased chest wall compliance
C) Expiratory air trapping
D) Poor respiratory drive
E) Respiratory muscle fatigue

Correct Answer:

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