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Interpret the arterial blood gas results:

pH: 7.38
pCO₂: 37
pO₂: 78
HCO₃: 24
O₂ Sat: 89%
A. Respiratory acidosis.
B. Metabolic alkalosis.
C. Normal acid-base balance.
D. Metabolic acidosis.

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The arterial blood gas results present a normal pH, pCO₂, and HCO₃, which correspond to a normal acid-base balance (Option C), despite a slightly low O₂ Saturation that is not indicating an acid-base disturbance in this context.Option C). Normal acid-base balance.

Step-by-step explanation:

The arterial blood gas results show a pH of 7.38, which is within the normal range of 7.35-7.45, suggesting no acidosis or alkalosis. The pCO₂ of 37 is also within the normal range for males (35-48 mm Hg) and females (32-45 mm Hg), indicating no respiratory imbalance.

The HCO₃ level of 24 falls within the normal range of 22-29 mM, pointing towards no metabolic imbalance. The O₂ Saturation at 89% is slightly low as normal saturation ranges from 95-100%; however, this alone does not indicate an acid-base disturbance. Therefore, the correct answer based on the provided arterial blood gas results is C. Normal acid-base balance.

User Putra Ardiansyah
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