Arterial blood gas levels are obtained for the client. If the client's results are pH 7.48, pCo2 42mmHg, and HCO3 32 mEq/L, the client is exhibiting which one of the following acid-base imbalances?
Metabolic alkalosis
Respiratory acidosis
Metabolic acidosis
Respiratory alkalosis
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale:
A. pH: 7.48 is elevated (normal: 7.35–7.45). This indicates alkalosis. pCO₂: 42 mm Hg is normal (normal: 35–45 mm Hg). HCO₃⁻: 32 mEq/L is elevated (normal: 22–26 mEq/L) hence pointing towards a primary metabolic cause. Since the pH is high and the HCO₃⁻ is also high, with a normal pCO₂, this is clearly a case of metabolic alkalosis.
B. Respiratory acidosis would have low pH and high pCO₂.
C. Metabolic acidosis would have low pH and low HCO₃⁻.
D. Respiratory alkalosis would have high pH and low pCO.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Cabbage is low in potassium and not ideal for correcting hypokalemia.
B. White rice is low in potassium and does not help increase potassium levels.
C. Cheddar cheese contains minimal potassium and is not effective for raising serum potassium.
D. Bananas are rich in potassium and are appropriate to help correct hypokalemia caused by furosemide use.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Normal ABG would have pH between 7.35–7.45, PaCO₂ between 35–45 mmHg, and HCO₃⁻ between 22–26 mEq/L. This ABG is not fully normal.
B. Metabolic acidosis is characterized by low pH and low HCO₃⁻, which is not the case here.
C. Metabolic alkalosis shows elevated HCO₃⁻ (30 mEq/L) and a near-normal but slightly alkalotic pH (7.44). The elevated PaCO₂ (48 mmHg) suggests partial respiratory compensation.
D. Respiratory acidosis would have a low pH and high PaCO₂, which doesn't match this ABG.
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