Why is the bicarbonate buffer system considered an open buffer system?
a. As the major blood and body buffer sys-tem, it is open by definition.
b. It operates only in the extracellular fluid, avoiding cell closure.
c. Its acid (carbonic acid) is converted to CO2 and removed.
d. Its chemical reactions occur very quickly.
ANS: C
The bicarbonate system is called an open buffer system because H2CO3 is in equilibrium with dissolved CO2, which is readily removed by ventilation.
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The paramedic should NOT operate an emergency vehicle if he or she:
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