An infant is admitted to the hospital with severe dehydration.Laboratory results show pH 7.32,PaCO? 40,HCO?- 21.How does the nurse interpret these values?
A) Metabolic acidosis
B) Metabolic alkalosis
C) Respiratory acidosis
D) Respiratory alkalosis

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The pH of 7.32 indicates acidosis. The HCO?- of 21 indicates a contributing metabolic component. The normal HCO?- value is 22-26 mEq/L, which means it is slightly lower than normal, indicating metabolic acidosis. The PaCO? value of 40 is within the normal range and does not indicate a respiratory component.

An Infant Is Admitted to the Hospital with Severe Dehydration