Compute Qs/Qt given CcO2 20, CaO2 15, CvO2 12.

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Multiple Choice

Compute Qs/Qt given CcO2 20, CaO2 15, CvO2 12.

The question uses the shunt equation: Qs/Qt = (CcO2 − CaO2) / (CcO2 − CvO2). Here, end-capillary oxygen content is 20, arterial oxygen content is 15, and mixed venous oxygen content is 12. Subtracting gives a numerator of 5 and a denominator of 8. So Qs/Qt = 5/8 = 0.625, i.e., 0.625 (62.5%). This fraction represents the portion of cardiac output that bypasses proper oxygenation at the alveolar capillary level.

The question uses the shunt equation: Qs/Qt = (CcO2 − CaO2) / (CcO2 − CvO2). Here, end-capillary oxygen content is 20, arterial oxygen content is 15, and mixed venous oxygen content is 12. Subtracting gives a numerator of 5 and a denominator of 8. So Qs/Qt = 5/8 = 0.625, i.e., 0.625 (62.5%). This fraction represents the portion of cardiac output that bypasses proper oxygenation at the alveolar capillary level.

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