NREMT Paramedic Practice

Which factor is associated with causing Metabolic Acidosis?

1. Dehydration

2. Hyperventilation

3. Mild fever

4. Obesity

The correct answer is: Dehydration

Metabolic acidosis occurs when there is an excess of acid in the body or a significant loss of bicarbonate, leading to a decrease in the pH of the blood. Dehydration is associated with metabolic acidosis because it can lead to the accumulation of lactic acid in the body due to decreased renal perfusion and reduced clearance of metabolic wastes. In a dehydrated state, the kidneys may not function optimally, which can hinder their ability to excrete hydrogen ions and reabsorb bicarbonate. The other factors listed do not typically lead to metabolic acidosis. Hyperventilation, for example, generally results in respiratory alkalosis, as it causes a decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the blood. Mild fever may increase metabolic rates but does not directly influence acid-base balance significantly enough to cause acidosis. Obesity can lead to various metabolic disorders, but it is not a direct cause of metabolic acidosis as implied in this context. Therefore, dehydration stands out as a contributing factor to the development of metabolic acidosis.