What condition will shift the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve to the right?

The oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve shifting to the right indicates a decreased affinity of hemoglobin for oxygen, making it easier for hemoglobin to release oxygen to the tissues. Acidosis, which refers to a condition where there is an excess of hydrogen ions (lower pH), is one of the main factors that causes this rightward shift. As the pH decreases (more acidic), it promotes the release of oxygen from hemoglobin. This is described by the Bohr effect, where an increase in carbon dioxide and a decrease in pH enhance oxygen unloading in the tissues, aiding in oxygen delivery where it is most needed.

In contrast, alkalosis, characterized by a higher pH (lower concentration of hydrogen ions), would shift the curve to the left, indicating a higher affinity of hemoglobin for oxygen. Multiple blood transfusions can alter hemoglobin composition but do not directly lead to a rightward shift like acidosis does. Increased quantities of hemoglobin S or C relate to specific hemoglobinopathies that can affect oxygen transport but do not universally lead to a rightward shift in the same manner as acidosis. Thus, acidosis is the condition that clearly correlates with a rightward shift in the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve.