A nurse assesses a client with diabetes mellitus who is admitted with an acid-base imbalance. The client's arterial blood gas values are pH 7.36, PaO2 98 mm Hg PaCO2 33 mm Hg and HCO3-18 mEq/L. Which manifestation should the nurse identify as an example of the client's compensation mechanism?

Rationale: A. Decreased urinary output is not a compensatory response; it may indicate dehydration or renal dysfunction. B. Increased respiratory rate is a compensatory mechanism. The low bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻ 18 mEq/L) indicates metabolic acidosis, and the body compensates by increasing ventilation to lower PaCO₂ and help normalize pH. C. Peripheral edema is not a compensatory response to acid-base imbalance; it relates to fluid retention or cardiac issues. D. Hypertension is unrelated to acid-base compensation; it may be present due to other comorbidities but is not a compensatory mechanism.