Metabolic compensation in a child with respiratory acidosis takes how much time?: (A) < 1 day, (B) 1-2 days, (C) 3-4 days, (D) More than 7 days
Answer is C. Secondary respiratory compen sations to metabolic acid-base disorders occur within minutes and is completed by 12 to 24 hr. In contrast secondary metabolic compensation of respiratory disorders begins more slowly and takes 2 to 5 days for completion. The compensatory mechanisms do not return the pH to normal until the underlying disease process has been appropriately treated.