Question

What does the following ABG show?

PaO_2: 13 kPa (98 mmHg)
pH: 7.25
PaCO_2: 3.5 kPa (26 mmHg)
HCO_3-: 13 mmol/L
BE: - 4
(A) Respiratory acidosis
(B) Respiratory alkalosis
(C) Metabolic acidosis
(D) Metabolic alkalosis

Answer 1

The arterial blood gas results indicate metabolic acidosis with respiratory compensation, manifesting as a low pH, decreased bicarbonate level, and decreased PaCO2.

Step-by-step explanation:

The provided arterial blood gas (ABG) values demonstrate a pH of 7.25, PaCO2 of 3.5 kPa (26 mmHg), HCO3- of 13 mmol/L, and a base excess (BE) of -4. Given these values, the ABG shows metabolic acidosis. This is indicated by a low pH (below the normal range of 7.35-7.45), a decreased HCO3- level (below the normal range of 22-29 mmol/L), and a negative base excess indicating a deficit in bicarbonate. Additionally, the decreased PaCO2 below the standard range for males (35-48 mmHg) and females (32-45 mmHg) suggests respiratory compensation has occurred, as the body attempts to correct the pH by hyperventilating to blow off CO2. The PaO2 value is within normal limits and does not directly influence the classification of acid-base disorders.