Based on the following ABG results, what is the most likely acid-base diagnosis? pH = 7.08, PCO2 = 39 mm Hg, HCO3– = 11.8 mEq/L
a. Acute metabolic acidosis
b. Acute respiratory acidosis
c. Partially compensated metabolic acidosis
d. Partially compensated respiratory acidosis
ANS: A
The patient is acidotic (pH <7.35). This can be caused by an elevated PCO2 or a HCO3– low. In this question the HCO3– is low. If compensation were present the PCO2 would have to be de-creased. As it is normal this is an uncompensated metabolic acidosis. Remember that when there is no compensation in this situation, it usually implies that there is a primary problem with the respiratory system as well.
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