Question

The following laboratory results were obtained on arterial blood:

Sodium - 136 mEq/L
pH - 7.32
Potassium 4.4 mEq/L
PCO2 - 79 mmHg
Chloride - 92 mEq/L
Bicarbonate - 40 mEq/L
These results are most compatible with:
a. Respiratory alkalosis
b. Respiratory acidosis
c. Metabolic alkalosis
d. Metabolic acidosis

Answer 1

The laboratory results indicate acidosis with a low pH level and elevated PCO2, which along with a raised bicarbonate level suggest the condition is respiratory acidosis with renal compensation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The laboratory results show a pH of 7.32, indicating that the condition is acidosis because the pH is below the normal range of 7.35-7.45. The PCO2 is 79 mmHg, which is significantly higher than the normal range of 35-48 mmHg for males and 32-45 mmHg for females, suggesting that the primary problem is a respiratory one. Additionally, the elevated bicarbonate level (HCO3−) of 40 mEq/L, which is above the normal range of 22-29 mM, indicates the presence of a compensatory mechanism. These results are most compatible with respiratory acidosis, with the kidneys attempting to compensate for the elevated CO2 levels by retaining bicarbonate.