Final answer:
Metabolic acidosis is a potential complication of cardiogenic shock, which may arise due to lactic acid build-up from impaired tissue perfusion.
Step-by-step explanation:
The acid-base imbalance that is a potential complication of cardiogenic shock is metabolic acidosis. Cardiogenic shock is a condition where the heart fails to pump blood effectively, often due to a myocardial infarction or other cardiac issues. In this state, tissue perfusion decreases leading to lactic acid build-up from anaerobic metabolism, which can result in metabolic acidosis. Similarly, respiratory acidosis may occur if cardiogenic shock leads to respiratory insufficiency. Treatment aims to restore adequate cardiac function, and in the case of acidosis, may include measures to rebalance the body's pH levels