Question

Micky Mo is a 64-year-old male admitted to the emergency room for asthma. His laboratory results are as follows: pH 7.31, pCO2 higher than normal, and total HCO3– also higher than normal. Classify his acid-base balance as acidosis or alkalosis, and as metabolic or respiratory. Is there evidence of compensation?

Answer 1

Micky Mo is suffering from respiratory acidosis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The pCO2 level in micky"s body is higher than normal it means the excess amount of CO2 will reacts with water to generate carbonic acid(H2CO3).

On the other hand according to the question total HCO3- also higher than normal.As a result the excess HCO3- will react with proton to form carbonic acid which is in turn dissociate to generate CO2 and H2O to maintain normal acid base homeostasis.

From that point of view it can be said Micky Mo is suffering from respiratory acidosis.