Field Internship Student Data Acquisition Project. (FISDAP) Airway Practice Exam

Kussmaul respirations are typically associated with which condition?

1. Respiratory alkalosis

2. Metabolic acidosis

3. Cardiac arrest

4. Hypovolemic shock

The correct answer is: Metabolic acidosis

Kussmaul respirations are characterized by deep, rapid, and labored breathing and are typically associated with metabolic acidosis. This type of respiration occurs as a compensatory mechanism in response to high levels of acid in the blood, often seen in conditions such as diabetic ketoacidosis or renal failure. The body attempts to eliminate excess carbon dioxide to help correct the acid-base imbalance, resulting in the characteristic pattern of breathing associated with Kussmaul respirations. Thus, when metabolic acidosis occurs, it triggers this specific respiratory pattern to restore homeostasis by increasing the rate and depth of breathing. This understanding highlights the significance of recognizing Kussmaul respirations as an important clinical sign in diagnosing and managing metabolic acidosis.