Final answer:
In metabolic acidosis secondary to acute renal failure, the initial client response is an increase in respiratory rate to blow off acid and restore the acid-base balance.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a patient has metabolic acidosis secondary to acute renal failure, the initial client response is an increase in respiratory rate to blow off acid. This is the body's way of trying to restore the acid-base balance. By increasing the respiratory rate, the body is able to eliminate more carbon dioxide (CO₂), which helps to decrease the acid levels in the blood.
As a result, the bicarbonate to carbonic acid ratio is readjusted to the normal 20:1 level. This compensatory mechanism occurs within minutes to help restore the pH balance in the body.
It's important to note that this is the initial response to the problem. Further interventions may be required to fully manage the metabolic acidosis.