Final answer:
The student's arterial blood gas results indicate a condition of respiratory alkalosis, with a pH slightly above the normal range and a reduced pCO₂ level without compensatory changes in bicarbonate levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
To interpret the arterial blood gas results: pH: 7.46, pCO₂: 30, pO₂: 90, HCO₃: 24, and O₂ Sat: 94%, we must compare them to the reference values. A normal arterial blood pH ranges from 7.35 to 7.45. With the provided pH of 7.46, this indicates a slight alkalinity. The partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO₂) for a male should be between 35-48 mm Hg, and for a female, 32-45 mm Hg. Thus, the reported value of 30 mm Hg is lower than the normal range, suggesting a reduction in CO₂ concentration. The bicarbonate (HCO₃) level is normal, as it lies within the normal range of 22-29 mM. Given these results, the individual has a blood pH slightly above the normal range and a reduced pCO₂ without a compensatory change in bicarbonate. Hence, this is consistent with a condition of respiratory alkalosis.