Based on the following ABG results, what is the most likely acid-base diagnosis? pH = 7.62, PCO2 = 41 mm Hg, HCO3– = 40.9 mEq/L

a. Acute (uncompensated) metabolic alkalo-sis
b. Acute (uncompensated) respiratory alkalo-sis
c. Fully compensated metabolic alkalosis
d. Partially compensated metabolic alkalosis

ANS: A
The patient is alkalotic (pH >7.35). This can be caused by an elevated HCO3– or a low PCO2. In this question the HCO3– is elevated. If compensation were present the PCO2 would have to be elevated. As it is normal, this is an uncompensated metabolic alkalosis.