A patient with pH of 7, pCO2 of 30 mmHg and Bicarbonate levels of 10 meq. What is the acid base abnormality?: (A) Metabolic alkalosis, (B) Respiratory alkalosis, (C) Metabolic Acidosis, (D) Respiratory Acidosis
Answer is C. Since pH is less, and HCO3 is less, it implies metabolic acidosis Now for compensation pCO2 = HCO3 + 15 = 10 + 15 = 25 mm Hg The value predicted is not matching with given pCO2 of 30 mmHg. Implies compensation is not there and it is a mixed disorder. Conclusion metabolic acidosis with respiratory acidosis.