Mrs.Frykholm is experiencing diabetic ketoacidosis,which causes metabolic acidosis.She has experienced damage to her kidneys from diabetes mellitus.Predict how her body compensates to return her blood pH to normal.

Question

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To compensate for metabolic acidosis, the body increases respiratory rate (hyperventilation) to decrease carbon dioxide levels and increase pH levels. This is the fastest compensatory mechanism for metabolic acidosis. Option A and B are incorrect because in diabetic ketoacidosis, the kidneys are already damaged and cannot compensate by regulating hydrogen ion secretion or bicarbonate ion reabsorption effectively. Option D (hypoventilation) would worsen the acidosis.

MrsFrykholm Is Experiencing Diabetic Ketoacidosis,which Causes Metabolic Acidosis