Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

A 43-year-old female who has overdosed on heroin exhibits slow, shallow respirations. What condition is she likely to develop if untreated?

1. Respiratory alkalosis

2. Respiratory acidosis

3. Metabolic acidosis

4. Hypoxia

The correct answer is: Respiratory acidosis

In the scenario of a heroin overdose, the patient is likely to develop respiratory acidosis if untreated. This condition arises due to hypoventilation, demonstrated by the slow, shallow respirations, which leads to an increased concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the bloodstream. The accumulation of CO2 results in a decrease in blood pH, a hallmark of respiratory acidosis. Given that the body relies on adequate breathing to expel carbon dioxide, a decrease in respiratory effort impairs this function, causing CO2 to build up. This not only affects the acid-base balance but can also lead to a range of physiological complications due to the high CO2 levels altering the blood chemistry. Other options present conditions that are less likely in the context of the heroin overdose and the specific respiratory pattern described. For instance, respiratory alkalosis is typically caused by hyperventilation, while metabolic acidosis is associated with issues such as severe infection, kidney problems, or lactic acid buildup, none of which directly relate to the respiratory insufficiency caused by an opioid overdose. Hypoxia may occur as a secondary issue due to the insufficient oxygenation from poor ventilation, but the primary concern in this scenario, given the impaired respiratory function, is the development of respiratory ac