A patient is experiencing respiratory acidosis. Which organ system is responsible for compensation in this patient?

Rationale: A. The renal system compensates for respiratory acidosis by retaining bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻) and excreting hydrogen ions to help normalize blood pH. B. The endocrine system regulates hormones, but it is not involved in acid-base compensation. C. The respiratory system is the cause of the acidosis in this case and therefore cannot compensate. D. The gastrointestinal system has a minor role in maintaining acid-base balance, but it is not the primary compensatory system for respiratory imbalances.