A 67-year-old patient complaining of shortness of breath has the following blood gases obtained on an F_IO₂ of 0.21: Which of the following best describes the acid-base status of this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient is in compensated respiratory acidosis as evidenced by an elevated PCO2 level of 56 mmHg and a pH of 7.35. The mild hypoxemia is likely secondary to the respiratory acidosis. Compensation is indicated by a normal bicarbonate level of 28 mEq/L.

A 67-Year-Old Patient Complaining of Shortness of Breath Has the Following