Answer: Q3) A semi-conscious pregnant woman is admitted to the labour ward presenting with dry skin, hyperventilation and a rapid pulse rate. Her blood gas result is as follows. What is the most likely diagnosis? pH 7.14, pCO2 30 mmHg, HCO3 14 mmol/l, Na+ 140 mEq/l, K+ 4.5 mEq/l, Glucose 12 mmol/l. a) Metabolic acidosis b) Metabolic acidosis with respiratory compensation c) Metabolic alkalosis d) Respiratory acidosis e) Respiratory alkalosis Correct Answer: a) Metabolic acidosis. The presence of decreased pH, bicarbonate and normal CO2 tension is suggestive of metabolic acidosis. Also, the reduced bicarbonate/pCO2 ratio shows a widened anion gap. The presence of hyperglycemia and dehydration can lead to significant complications in a diabetic patient.
Posted on: Fri, 13 Jun 2014 12:07:38 +0000