A patient's ABG shows: pH 7.32. PaCO2 50 mmHg. HCO3 24 mEq/L. What is the correct diagnosis?
Metabolic acidosis
Respiratory acidosis
Respiratory alkalosis
Metabolic alkalosis
The Correct Answer is B
A. Metabolic acidosis would be indicated by a low pH and a low HCO3, which is not present in this case since HCO3 is normal.
B. The pH of 7.32 indicates acidemia, and a PaCO2 of 50 mmHg suggests respiratory acidosis as the body is retaining carbon dioxide, contributing to the low pH. The HCO3 is normal, indicating that there is no metabolic compensation occurring.
C. Respiratory alkalosis would show a high pH and low PaCO2, which is not the case here.
D. Metabolic alkalosis would present with a high pH and elevated HCO3, which is also not present in these ABG results.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an increased pH and increased HCO3 levels, which does not fit the provided values.
B. The low HCO3 of 18 mEq indicates a metabolic acidosis, as the body is unable to retain enough bicarbonate to balance the acid levels, and the pH is also low at 7.30, confirming acidosis.
C. Respiratory alkalosis would show a high pH and low PaCO2, which is not the case here.
D. Respiratory acidosis would be indicated by a high PaCO2 and a low pH, but the HCO3 level is low, indicating a metabolic issue rather than a respiratory one.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Stridor is a high-pitched sound indicating upper airway obstruction and is a critical sign of anaphylaxis requiring immediate intervention to secure the airway.
B. Hypotension is a serious condition that occurs during anaphylaxis, but the priority is to address the airway obstruction first.
C. Urticaria (hives) is a common symptom of an allergic reaction but is not life-threatening and can be addressed after more severe symptoms.
D. Vomiting may occur during anaphylaxis but is not the most urgent finding when airway compromise is present.