Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Practice Exam

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What effect does an increase in 2-3DPG have on hemoglobin's oxygen affinity?

Decreases oxygen affinity
Increases oxygen affinity
No effect on oxygen affinity
Causes complete saturation of hemoglobin

The correct answer is: Decreases oxygen affinity

An increase in 2,3-Diphosphoglycerate (2,3-DPG) reduces hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen. 2,3-DPG binds to deoxygenated hemoglobin, stabilizing it in a state that favors the release of oxygen. This particular binding decreases the attraction between hemoglobin and oxygen, which facilitates oxygen delivery to tissues that need it the most, especially in conditions where oxygen demand is high, such as during exercise or in states of hypoxia. This physiological mechanism is crucial because it allows the body to respond to varying oxygen demands by adjusting how readily hemoglobin binds to or releases oxygen. When levels of 2,3-DPG are higher, it enhances the unloading of oxygen from hemoglobin, thereby promoting more efficient oxygen delivery to metabolically active tissues. This is especially important in situations like chronic lung disease or in those living at high altitudes, where oxygen delivery is a critical factor.