Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

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Which statement best describes the impact of hyperventilation on calcium levels in the blood?

  1. Calcium levels increase significantly

  2. Calcium levels remain unchanged

  3. Calcium levels decrease, leading to muscle cramps

  4. Calcium levels fluctuate wildly

The correct answer is: Calcium levels decrease, leading to muscle cramps

Hyperventilation can lead to decreased levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood, which causes a rise in blood pH (a state known as respiratory alkalosis). This change in pH influences calcium levels, specifically by affecting the binding of calcium to proteins in the bloodstream. As the pH increases, more calcium binds to proteins, reducing the levels of free, ionized calcium available in the blood. This drop in ionized calcium can lead to symptoms such as muscle cramps, tingling, and spasms, commonly associated with hypocalcemia. Therefore, the statement regarding a decrease in calcium levels due to hyperventilation, resulting in muscle cramps, accurately describes the physiological changes occurring during this condition.