A person's arterial blood gases on room air are pH = 7.35, PaCO₂ = 32 mm Hg, and HCO₃^- = 17 mEq/L. What is the correct interpretation?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The low pH indicates acidosis. The low PaCO2 suggests respiratory compensation, and the low HCO3- indicates a primary metabolic acidosis. The compensation by the respiratory system (low PaCO2) suggests it is partially compensated, but since the pH is still low, it is not fully compensated.

A Person's Arterial Blood Gases on Room Air Are PH