Which of the following conditions is most likely to be the physiological cause of hypoxemia?
A)increased depth and rate of ventilation
B)chronic obstructive lung diseases causing ventilation-perfusion imbalances
C)a ventricular septal defect that permits blood to flow through a hole from the left side of the heart to the right side of the heart
D)inhibition of gas exchange between alveolar capillaries and alveoli due to thickened alveolar epithelial membranes
E)failure of the kidney to produce adequate amounts of renal erythropoietic factor

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Chronic obstructive lung diseases, such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis, can cause ventilation-perfusion imbalances, leading to hypoxemia. This is because the airways are narrowed, making it difficult for air to flow in and out of the lungs and reducing the amount of oxygen that can be exchanged. This can also cause a decrease in oxygen saturation levels in the blood.

Which of the Following Conditions Is Most Likely to Be