A client's arterial blood gas results show a pH of 7.3 and a PaCO2 of 50 mm Hg. The client is experiencing which of the following acid-base imbalances?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Respiratory acidosis. In this case, the low pH indicates acidosis, and the elevated PaCO2 indicates respiratory involvement. In respiratory acidosis, the lungs cannot eliminate enough CO2, leading to an increase in carbonic acid and a decrease in pH. Metabolic acidosis (choice A) would involve a primary decrease in bicarbonate levels, not seen in this scenario. Metabolic alkalosis (choice B) would involve an increase in bicarbonate levels, which is not indicated by the given information. Respiratory alkalosis (choice D) would have a low PaCO2 and an elevated pH, opposite of what is seen here.