Her current pH is extremely low. Which statement explains the physiology of this pH in terms of her kidney and respiratory function?

a. Initially, her pH was probably less than normal (7.35) due to metabolic alkalosis and an increase in H+. Now that she also has pneumonia, she has respiratory alkalosis, and her H+ concentration has increased, causing her pH to drop to 6.72.

b. Initially, her pH was probably higher than normal (7.35) due to metabolic acidosis and an increase in H+. Now that she also has pneumonia, she has respiratory acidosis, and her H+ concentration has increased, causing her pH to drop to 6.72.

c. Initially, her pH was probably less than normal (7.35) due to metabolic acidosis and an increase in H+. Now that she also has pneumonia, she has respiratory acidosis, and her H+ concentration has decreased, causing her pH to drop to 6.72.

d. Initially, her pH was probably less than normal (7.35) due to metabolic acidosis and an increase in H+. Now that she also has pneumonia, she has respiratory acidosis, and her H+ concentration has increased, causing her pH to drop to 6.72.



Answer :

Final answer:

The detailed answer explains respiratory alkalosis, renal compensation, and the physiological response to metabolic acidosis and pneumonia causing respiratory acidosis.


Explanation:

Respiratory alkalosis occurs when there is a deficiency of CO₂ in the bloodstream, leading to normal bicarbonate levels initially. With renal compensation, the kidneys decrease bicarbonate concentration to bring pH to the normal range.

In a case of a patient with low pH due to metabolic acidosis and pneumonia causing respiratory acidosis, the H+ concentration increases, leading to a pH drop. The kidneys attempt to compensate by adjusting bicarbonate levels.

Lab tests for pH, PCO₂, and HCO3- help classify acid-base imbalances, indicating whether they are respiratory or metabolic, and assess the effectiveness of compensatory mechanisms.


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