In respiratory alkalosis this leads to a clear reduction in PCO2 and subsequently to a reduction in the PCO2/[HCO3-] ratio which reduces the concentration of hydrogen ions (and increases the pH) according the following equation: [H+] = 24 × PCO2 / [HCO3-] In response to the decrease in [H+] and increase in pH, the body responds by trying to reduce plasma to match the reduction in PCO2 and thus maintain the ratio (DuBose, T.D., 1997). There are two mechanisms responsible for this. Rapid cellular buffering and decreased net renal acid excretion. As in respiratory acidosis, these responses occur at different time points, distinguishing acute respiratory alkalosis from chronic respiratory alkalosis. Three common causes of respiratory alkalosis can include hyperventilation due to anxiety and/or shock, pneumonia, and pulmonary congestion, to name a few. The best treatment method for respiratory alkalosis, since it is not life-threatening, is to simply increase inspired CO 2