What would a pH of 7.40, PCO2 of 40 mm Hg, and HCO3 of 24 mEq/L suggest about a patient's acid-base balance?

What would a pH of 7.40, PCO2 of 40 mm Hg, and HCO3 of 24 mEq/L suggest about a patient's acid-base balance?

• A. Acidosis
• B. Alkalosis
• C. Neutral
• D. Respiratory failure

Answer: (C)

A pH of 7.40, PCO2 of 40 mm Hg, and HCO3 of 24 mEq/L indicate that the patient's acid-base balance is within normal limits. The normal pH range is typically between 7.35 and 7.45, and a value of 7.40 sits comfortably in the center of this range, signifying neutrality in terms of acid-base status. The PCO2 level of 40 mm Hg aligns with the normal respiratory function and indicates that carbon dioxide levels are effectively managed, contributing to a stable acid-base environment. Additionally, the bicarbonate (HCO3) level of 24 mEq/L is also within the normal range (22-26 mEq/L). Overall, these values suggest that the patient is neither experiencing acidosis nor alkalosis, which are typically marked by significant deviations in pH. Therefore, this combination of values supports a conclusion of neutral acid-base status and indicates that the patient’s physiological processes are functioning well in terms of acid-base regulation.

A pH of 7.40, PCO2 of 40 mm Hg, and HCO3 of 24 mEq/L indicate that the patient's acid-base balance is within normal limits. The normal pH range is typically between 7.35 and 7.45, and a value of 7.40 sits comfortably in the center of this range, signifying neutrality in terms of acid-base status.

The PCO2 level of 40 mm Hg aligns with the normal respiratory function and indicates that carbon dioxide levels are effectively managed, contributing to a stable acid-base environment. Additionally, the bicarbonate (HCO3) level of 24 mEq/L is also within the normal range (22-26 mEq/L).

Overall, these values suggest that the patient is neither experiencing acidosis nor alkalosis, which are typically marked by significant deviations in pH. Therefore, this combination of values supports a conclusion of neutral acid-base status and indicates that the patient’s physiological processes are functioning well in terms of acid-base regulation.