HESI Med Surg Hematological system Related

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Which arterial blood gas (ABG) data corresponds with a patient's clinical manifestations of respiratory alkalosis?

  • A. pH = 7.46, PaCO2 = 44 mm Hg, PaO2 = 95 mm Hg, and HCO3 = 36 mEq/L.
  • B. pH = 7.27, PaCO2 = 70 mm Hg, PaO2 = 80 mm Hg, and HCO3 = 26 mEq/L.
  • C. pH = 7.30, PaCO2 = 35 mm Hg, PaO2 = 70 mm Hg, and HCO3 = 20 mEq/L.
  • D. pH = 7.52, PaCO2 = 24 mm Hg, PaO2 = 85 mm Hg, and HCO3 = 24 mEq/L.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a high pH (>7.45) and a low PaCO2 (<35 mm Hg). The data in option D (pH = 7.52, PaCO2 = 24 mm Hg) indicates respiratory alkalosis.