Acid-Base Balance Disorders · NCLEX Exam

Which condition is likely to cause metabolic alkalosis?

  1. pH 7.30, PaCO₂ 32 mmHg, HCO₃⁻ 16 mEq/L
  2. pH 7.52, PaCO₂ 28 mmHg, HCO₃⁻ 22 mEq/L
  3. pH 7.40, PaCO₂ 60 mmHg, HCO₃⁻ 36 mEq/L
  4. pH 7.36, PaCO₂ 52 mmHg, HCO₃⁻ 29 mEq/L
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Correct answer: pH 7.30, PaCO₂ 32 mmHg, HCO₃⁻ 16 mEq/L

Metabolic acidosis shows a low pH with a low bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻). pH 7.30 with HCO₃⁻ 16 mEq/L indicates metabolic acidosis; the low PaCO₂ (32 mmHg) reflects respiratory compensation by hyperventilation.

Difficulty: Easy Question 4 of 25

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