Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

Which statement about Kussmaul respirations is accurate?

1. SpO2 levels are always low

2. They are characterized by shallow breathing

3. SpO2 may be normal due to an increase in respiratory rate and depth

4. They indicate a state of respiratory failure

The correct answer is: SpO2 may be normal due to an increase in respiratory rate and depth

Kussmaul respirations are a specific pattern of breathing that is typically seen in metabolic acidosis, most commonly associated with conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis. This abnormal breathing pattern is characterized by deep, labored breaths that increase both respiratory rate and depth in an effort to blow off excess carbon dioxide and raise blood pH back to normal. The statement emphasizing that SpO2 may be normal is accurate because, despite the rapid and deep nature of these respirations, they are often effective in maintaining sufficient oxygen levels in the bloodstream. The body attempts to compensate for the metabolic issue by increasing the ventilation rate and depth. This compensatory mechanism can result in normal oxygen saturation readings, even though the underlying acidosis signals that the body is in distress. In contrast, the other statements do not hold true in the context of Kussmaul respirations. It's not a condition where oxygen saturation levels are always low, as they can be maintained in some scenarios, nor is this breathing pattern shallow; rather, it is recognized for its deep qualities. Additionally, while Kussmaul respirations reflect a physiological response to metabolic derangement, they do not inherently indicate respiratory failure, which is more indicative of issues like inadequate breathing or impaired gas exchange.