A nurse is assisting with the admission of a client who is hyperventilating, reports lightheadedness and paresthesias, has blurred vision, and a new onset of confusion. The nurse should suspect that the client has developed which of the following imbalances?

Rationale: A. Metabolic acidosis is characterized by Kussmaul respirations (deep and rapid breathing), but not typically lightheadedness or paresthesias. B. Metabolic alkalosis often presents with hypoventilation as the body tries to retain CO₂, not hyperventilation. C. Respiratory acidosis results from hypoventilation, leading to CO₂ retention, not the excessive breathing seen in this case. D. Respiratory alkalosis is caused by hyperventilation, which leads to excessive loss of CO₂, resulting in symptoms such as lightheadedness, confusion, paresthesias, and blurred vision — all present in this client.