Acid-Base Balance Disorders · NCLEX Exam

Which ABG pattern suggests metabolic alkalosis?

  1. pH 7.49, PaCO₂ 44 mmHg, HCO₃⁻ 30 mEq/L
  2. pH 7.30, PaCO₂ 30 mmHg, HCO₃⁻ 16 mEq/L
  3. pH 7.25, PaCO₂ 50 mmHg, HCO₃⁻ 20 mEq/L
  4. pH 7.52, PaCO₂ 28 mmHg, HCO₃⁻ 22 mEq/L
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: pH 7.49, PaCO₂ 44 mmHg, HCO₃⁻ 30 mEq/L

pH is high (alkalosis), HCO₃⁻ is elevated (30 mEq/L) so it indicates metabolic alkalosis; PaCO₂ is within near normal indicating little respiratory involvement.

Difficulty: Medium Question 1 of 25

Practice all 25 Acid-Base Balance Disorders questions

Keep practicing

More Acid-Base Balance Disorders questions