When dehydration reduces the compensation possible for acidosis resulting from prolonged diarrhea,what significant change in arterial blood gases indicates this?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Prolonged diarrhea can lead to a loss of bicarbonate ions from the body, resulting in metabolic acidosis. Compensation for this acidosis involves the kidneys increasing bicarbonate reabsorption and the respiratory system regulating carbon dioxide levels to maintain a normal pH. However, in cases of dehydration, this compensation is limited, as the kidneys may not have enough water to reabsorb bicarbonate and the lungs may not be able to exhale enough carbon dioxide. This results in a decrease in serum bicarbonate levels and a drop in serum pH below the normal range of 7.35-7.45. Therefore, choice C is the best answer as it correctly identifies the significant change in arterial blood gases that indicates the reduced compensation for acidosis in cases of dehydration resulting from prolonged diarrhea.

When Dehydration Reduces the Compensation Possible for Acidosis Resulting from Prolonged