A comatose client's blood pH is 7.1, partial pressure of carbon dioxide is 16 millimeters of mercury, and bicarbonate concentration is 5 milliequivalent/liter. Which acid-base imbalance has the client developed?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The client's blood pH of 7.1 indicates acidosis. The low bicarbonate concentration (5 milliequivalent/liter) suggests that the primary problem is metabolic acidosis, as bicarbonate is a base and its low level indicates a lack of base to neutralize acid in the body. The low partial pressure of carbon dioxide (16 millimeters of mercury) is a compensatory mechanism where the body tries to reduce acidosis by exhaling more CO2.

A Comatose Client's Blood PH Is 7