Arterial blood gas levels are obtained for the client.If the client's results are pH 7.48,CO₂ 42 mm Hg,and HCO₃ 32 mEq/L,the client is exhibiting which one of the following acid-base imbalances? A) Metabolic acidosis B) Respiratory acidosis C) Respiratory alkalosis D) Metabolic alkalosis

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The client's pH is elevated at 7.48 (normal 7.35 to 7.45),the CO₂ is normal at 42 mm Hg (normal 35 to 45 mm Hg),and the bicarbonate is elevated at 32 mEq/L (normal 22 to 26 mEq/L).The client is experiencing metabolic alkalosis.In metabolic acidosis the client's pH would be below 7.35,and the bicarbonate would be below 22 mEq/L.In respiratory acidosis the client's pH would be below 7.35,and the CO₂ would be elevated above 45 mm Hg.In respiratory alkalosis the client's pH would be above 7.45,and the CO₂ would be below 35 mm Hg.

Arterial Blood Gas Levels Are Obtained for the Client