Question

the arterial blood gas results show pCO2 of 54 and pH 7.6,this suggest

a. metbolic alkalosis

b. respiratory alkalosis

c. metabolic acidosis

d. respiratory acidosis

e.norma; blood gas values

Answer 1

Answer:

Option A (Metabolic alkalosis)

Explanation: Metabolic alkalosis is defined as the condition in which there is an increase in the concentration of the bicarbonate ions and also a simultaneous loss of the H+ ions leading to an increase in the blood pH. Normally the pH of the blood is 7.4, however with the subsequent formation of bicarbonate ions; the blood pH starts to increase towards alkalinity. Furthermore, also in this stage the partial pressure of the CO2 increases within the arteries of the body which in the question is reported to be 7.6.

Since bicarbonate ions are the major mechanism of the transportation of CO2 to the different body tissues; an increase in their quantity signifies the increase in the amount of the CO2 levels within the body.

The normal range of pCO2 within the arteries is around 35-45 mm of Hg, and with an increase in the rate of the arterial blood value of CO2, the pCO2 gets increased which is depicted in the question in the terms of value being 54 mm of Hg.

These changes during the metabolic alkalosis get detected by the brain stem of the human brain and it thus limits the ventilation. The condition if gets severe, might also lead to the mortality of the affected individuals.