Final Answer:
In the given arterial blood gas values (pH 7.42, PaCO2 26 mmHg, HCO3- 25 mEq), the pH is within the normal range, and both PaCO2 and HCO3- are abnormal. This indicates a compensated metabolic acidosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Arterial blood gas (ABG) values provide insights into acid-base balance. In the given scenario, the pH is normal (7.42), suggesting compensation. The low PaCO2 (26 mmHg) indicates respiratory alkalosis, while the normal bicarbonate (HCO3- 25 mEq) suggests metabolic compensation for the respiratory alkalosis. When assessing ABG results, one looks at the pH first: a pH within the normal range suggests compensation. Next, evaluate PaCO2 and HCO3-. In uncompensated situations, one of these values would be within the normal range, but in this case, both are abnormal, pointing towards compensation. The low PaCO2 indicates respiratory alkalosis, and the normal HCO3- suggests a compensatory metabolic response.