Question

Pablo is having horrible pain & anxiety from a car accident an hour ago.

pH = 7.55

pCO₂ = 30 mm Hg

HCO₃^- = 24 mEq/L

What is his diagnosis? Is there any compensation?

Remember:

H₂O + CO₂ <--> H₂CO₃ <--> HCO₃ ^- + H ⁺

Normal pCO₂ = 35-45 mm Hg                              
Normal HCO₃^- = 22 to 26 mEq/liter

Answer 1

HIS DIAGNOSIS IS PRIMARY RESPIRATORY ALKALOSIS WITH LACK OF COMPENSATION.

EXPLANATION :-

1) The normal blood pH ranges from 7.35 to 7.45.

2) Here the involved person’s blood pH of 7.55, which is morely toward alkaline side. So the pH indicated alkalemia.

3) Here given pCO2 = 30 mm Hg which is less than its normal range.

4) So, the decreased pCO2 value along with increased pH indicates primary respiratory alkalosis.

5) The given HCO3 in normal range not consistent with pH.

6) So, there is lack of compensation.