A subject referred for shortness of breath has the following arterial blood gas test results: Which of the following best describes these?
A) Normal acid-base and oxygenation status
B) Respiratory alkalosis with moderate hypoxemia
C) Uncompensated respiratory acidosis with mild hypoxemia
D) Partially compensated metabolic alkalosis with moderate hypoxemia

Question

A subject referred for shortness of breath has the following arterial blood gas test results:  Which of the following best describes these?
A) Normal acid-base and oxygenation status 
B) Respiratory alkalosis with moderate hypoxemia 
C) Uncompensated respiratory acidosis with mild hypoxemia 
D) Partially compensated metabolic alkalosis with moderate hypoxemia

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The pH and bicarbonate are within normal limits, indicating normal acid-base status. However, the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) is low (respiratory alkalosis) and the partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) is moderately low (hypoxemia), suggesting a respiratory issue rather than a metabolic issue.

A Subject Referred for Shortness of Breath Has the Following