Final answer:
The patient named Bob with a pH of 7.39, PaCO₂ of 44, and HCO₃⁻ of 26, when compared to the normal reference values, indicates a normal acid-base balance; hence the correct answer is D. Normal.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question presented is a case study regarding a patient named Bob with a history of asthma and his associated laboratory results. Given that the lab tests present a pH of 7.39, a PaCO₂ of 44 mm Hg, and an HCO₃⁻ of 26 mM, we are to classify the acid-base balance within the patient's body. According to Table 26.3, the reference values for arterial blood pH are 7.35-7.45, showing that Bob's pH is slightly higher than normal, suggesting potential alkalosis; however, the PaCO₂ and HCO₃⁻ values are both within the normal ranges (PaCO₂: 35-48 mm Hg for males, and HCO₃⁻: 22-29 mM), indicating a normal state and not alkalosis nor acidosis. Therefore, the correct answer is D. Normal.