What condition describes the inability to deliver adequate oxygen to tissues?

The condition that describes the inability to deliver adequate oxygen to tissues is hypoxia. Hypoxia specifically refers to a deficiency in the amount of oxygen reaching the tissues, which can lead to cellular dysfunction and potentially result in severe health consequences if not addressed.

This can occur due to various factors, such as respiratory issues, inadequate circulation, or high altitudes, all of which can prevent sufficient oxygen from being transported to the tissues. Understanding hypoxia is crucial in Advanced Life Support as it impacts treatment decisions and patient management.

In contrast, hypertension is related to high blood pressure and does not directly address oxygen delivery to tissues. Hypoventilation refers to decreased respiratory rate or depth, which can lead to inadequate oxygen levels but is more a symptom than a condition itself. Hypercapnia refers to elevated levels of carbon dioxide in the blood, typically due to hypoventilation, and while it is connected to respiratory function, it does not directly define the oxygen delivery failure to tissues. Thus, hypoxia is the clear and accurate term for the condition described.