The following has been determined from an arterial blood gas (ABG)sample: elevated arterial PCO₂level and a low blood pH.Determine the acid-base imbalance.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The elevated arterial PCO2 level indicates that there is excess carbon dioxide in the blood, which is often caused by inadequate breathing or lung function. This leads to an accumulation of acid in the blood, resulting in a low blood pH. Therefore, the acid-base imbalance is respiratory acidosis.

The Following Has Been Determined from an Arterial Blood Gas