A 43-year-old man is brought to the emergency department after being found unresponsive by his wife. She says he was in his usual state of health when she left home a few hours ago. The patient has a history of depression and type 2 diabetes mellitus. He was recently laid off from work. Blood pressure is 100/60 mm Hg and pulse is 64/min. On physical examination, the patient is responsive to deep sternal rub and has mildly dry mucous membranes. Arterial blood gas analysis reveals the following: Which of the following is the most likely current acid-base status in this patient?

Question

A 43-year-old man is brought to the emergency department after being found unresponsive by his wife.  She says he was in his usual state of health when she left home a few hours ago.  The patient has a history of depression and type 2 diabetes mellitus.  He was recently laid off from work.  Blood pressure is 100/60 mm Hg and pulse is 64/min.  On physical examination, the patient is responsive to deep sternal rub and has mildly dry mucous membranes.  Arterial blood gas analysis reveals the following:  Which of the following is the most likely current acid-base status in this patient?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: Respiratory acidosis presents with low pH and high PaCO₂. HCO₃- initially remains near normal but becomes elevated over several days as renal compensation develops.

A 43-Year-Old Man Is Brought to the Emergency Department After