Final answer:
The arterial blood gas results with a pH of 7.41, pCO₂ of 40, and HCO₃ of 25 suggest a normal acid-base balance, even though oxygen saturation is low at 86%. This indicates a possible respiratory issue affecting oxygenation but not the acid-base status of the individual.
Step-by-step explanation:
The arterial blood gas results for the student's question are: pH: 7.41, pCO₂: 40, pO₂: 65, HCO₃: 25, O₂ Sat: 86%. According to the reference values provided in Table 26.3, a normal arterial blood pH is between 7.35 and 7.45. Since the pH provided is 7.41, it falls within this normal range. Additionally, the pCO₂ is 40 mm Hg, which also falls within the typical reference range for both males (35-48 mm Hg) and females (32-45 mm Hg).
However, the pO₂ and O₂ saturation are both lower than expected. Normally, pO₂ values are higher, and O₂ saturation is typically above 95% in a healthy individual. The low O₂ saturation indicates a potential problem with oxygenation, but as the pH, pCO₂, and HCO₃ are all within normal ranges, the student's arterial blood gas suggests a normal acid-base balance with a potential respiratory issue causing decreased oxygen saturation. This situation is not indicative of respiratory acidosis, metabolic alkalosis, or respiratory alkalosis.