Which term refers to an insufficient amount of oxygen being carried in the blood?

Which term refers to an insufficient amount of oxygen being carried in the blood?

• A. Orthopnea
• B. Hypoxemia
• C. Anoxia
• D. Antipyretic

Answer: (B)

This item tests understanding of terms describing oxygen levels in the blood. An insufficient amount of oxygen being carried in the blood is hypoxemia—low arterial oxygen content or reduced oxygen saturation. It reflects problems with oxygen transfer in the lungs or circulation and can lead to tissue hypoxia if severe. The other terms don’t fit: orthopnea is difficulty breathing that occurs when lying flat, usually related to heart failure; anoxia means a complete absence of oxygen reaching tissues; an antipyretic is a fever-reducing medication.

This item tests understanding of terms describing oxygen levels in the blood. An insufficient amount of oxygen being carried in the blood is hypoxemia—low arterial oxygen content or reduced oxygen saturation. It reflects problems with oxygen transfer in the lungs or circulation and can lead to tissue hypoxia if severe. The other terms don’t fit: orthopnea is difficulty breathing that occurs when lying flat, usually related to heart failure; anoxia means a complete absence of oxygen reaching tissues; an antipyretic is a fever-reducing medication.