Arterial Blood Gas Interpretation Q 17

By | June 30, 2022

In a patient undergoing surgery, it was vital to aspirate the contents of the upper gastrointestinal tract. After the operation, the following values were acquired from an arterial blood sample: pH 7.55, PCO2 52 mm Hg and HCO3- 40 mmol/l. What is the underlying disorder?
  
     A. Respiratory Acidosis
     B. Respiratory Alkalosis
     C. Metabolic Acidosis
     D. Metabolic Alkalosis
    
    

Correct Answer: D. Metabolic Alkalosis

NGT suctioning, vomiting, hypokalemia and overdosage of NaHCO3 are considered risk factors of metabolic alkalosis.


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