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A patient is experiencing respiratory acidosis. Which organ system is responsible for compensation in this patient?

A.

Renal

B.

Endocrine

C.

Respiratory

D.

Gastrointestinal

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Rationale:
A. The renal system compensates for respiratory acidosis by retaining bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻) and excreting hydrogen ions to help normalize blood pH.
B. The endocrine system regulates hormones, but it is not involved in acid-base compensation.
C. The respiratory system is the cause of the acidosis in this case and therefore cannot compensate.
D. The gastrointestinal system has a minor role in maintaining acid-base balance, but it is not the primary compensatory system for respiratory imbalances.


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Rationale:
A. Respiratory alkalosis would present with an elevated pH and decreased PaCO₂, which is not consistent with these results.
B. Respiratory acidosis is indicated by a low pH (7.20) and an elevated PaCO₂ (50 mm Hg), with a normal HCO₃⁻ (24 mEq/L), suggesting uncompensated respiratory acidosis.
C. Metabolic alkalosis would present with an increased pH and elevated HCO₃⁻.
D. Metabolic acidosis would show a low pH and low HCO₃⁻, not an elevated PaCO₂.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Rationale:

A. Hemoglobin is important for evaluating oxygen-carrying capacity and detecting anemia, but spironolactone does not directly affect hemoglobin levels. This value is not a priority for monitoring the effects of spironolactone.

B. Cholesterol levels are relevant for assessing cardiovascular risk, but spironolactone does not significantly impact lipid profiles. Therefore, total cholesterol is not the most important lab to monitor for this medication.

C. TSH is used to evaluate thyroid function. Spironolactone does not influence thyroid hormones or TSH levels, so this value is unrelated to the medication’s expected effects or complications.

D. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic. It works by antagonizing aldosterone in the distal tubule, leading to retention of potassium. This can result in hyperkalemia, especially in older adults or those with renal impairment. Monitoring serum potassium is essential to prevent life-threatening arrhythmias and other complications.

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