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Interpret the ABG: pH 7.41, PaCO2 45mmHg. HCO3 26, PaO2 84 mmHg. SaO2 97%

A.

normal ABG

B.

respiratory acidosis

C.

metabolic alkalosis

D.

respiratory alkalosis

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Rationale:

A. pH 7.41: Normal range is 7.35–7.45. PaCO₂ 45 mm Hg: Normal range is 35–45 mm Hg. HCO₃⁻ 26 mEq/L: Normal range is 22–26 mEq/L. PaO₂ 84 mm Hg: Normal range is 80–100 mm Hg. SaO₂ 97%: Normal range is 95–100%. All values are within normal limits, indicating a balanced acid-base and oxygenation status.

B. pH 7.41: Normal range is 7.35–7.45. PaCO₂ 45 mm Hg: Normal range is 35–45 mm Hg. HCO₃⁻ 26 mEq/L: Normal range is 22–26 mEq/L. PaO₂ 84 mm Hg: Normal range is 80–100 mm Hg. SaO₂ 97%: Normal range is 95–100%. All values are within normal limits, indicating a balanced acid-base and oxygenation status.

C. pH 7.41: Normal range is 7.35–7.45. PaCO₂ 45 mm Hg: Normal range is 35–45 mm Hg. HCO₃⁻ 26 mEq/L: Normal range is 22–26 mEq/L. PaO₂ 84 mm Hg: Normal range is 80–100 mm Hg. SaO₂ 97%: Normal range is 95–100%. All values are within normal limits, indicating a balanced acid-base and oxygenation status.

D. pH 7.41: Normal range is 7.35–7.45. PaCO₂ 45 mm Hg: Normal range is 35–45 mm Hg. HCO₃⁻ 26 mEq/L: Normal range is 22–26 mEq/L. PaO₂ 84 mm Hg: Normal range is 80–100 mm Hg. SaO₂ 97%: Normal range is 95–100%. All values are within normal limits, indicating a balanced acid-base and oxygenation status.


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Rationale:
A. Sodium bicarbonate may be used to correct acidosis, but oxygenation must be addressed first to prevent further deterioration.
B. The first priority is to improve oxygenation. Administering oxygen by mask or nasal cannula is the most immediate and effective way to increase PaO₂ and support respiratory function.
C. A paper bag is used for respiratory alkalosis, not acidosis—it would worsen hypoxemia.
D. Glucose and insulin are used for hyperkalemia, which is not the current priority.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Rationale:
A. Diarrhea is more common with low calcium (hypocalcemia), while hypercalcemia often causes constipation.
B. Hypercalcemia usually causes hypertension due to increased vascular tone, not hypotension.
C. Elevated calcium levels can depress neuromuscular activity, leading to decreased deep tendon reflexes.
D. Increased appetite is not associated with hypercalcemia; hypercalcemia may cause nausea and decreased appetite.

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