The nurse is analyzing an arterial blood gas of pH, 7.50; PCO2, 30; and HCO3, 20. What result should the nurse document for this blood gas?

Question

a. Fully compensated metabolic alkalosis
b. Partially compensated metabolic alkalosis
c. Fully compensated respiratory alkalosis
d. Partially compensated respiratory alkalosis

Answer 1

ANS: D
When the fundamental acid–base ratio is altered for any reason, the body attempts to correct the deviation. In a simple disturbance, a single primary factor affects one component of the acid–base pair and is usually accompanied by a compensatory or secondary change in the component that is not primarily affected. In respiratory alkalosis, the pH is high (?7?7.45), and the PCO2 is low (?6?35). When the pH is restored to normal, the disturbance is described as compensated. It is partially compensated because the pH remains abnormal, but the HCO3 is low (?6?22), indicating an attempt at compensation.