A patient presents with the following ABGs: pH: 7.45 PaCO₂: 46 HCO₃⁻: 34 What is the nurse's interpretation of the results?

Choice A reason: Respiratory acidosis is characterized by low pH and elevated PaCO₂. In this case, the pH is normal-high and PaCO₂ is slightly elevated, but the primary disturbance is metabolic. Choice B reason: Respiratory alkalosis would present with elevated pH and decreased PaCO₂. This ABG does not fit that pattern. Choice C reason: The elevated HCO₃⁻ indicates metabolic alkalosis. The pH is at the upper limit of normal, suggesting full compensation by respiratory mechanisms (slightly elevated PaCO₂). This is the correct interpretation. Choice D reason: Metabolic acidosis would show low pH and low HCO₃⁻. These values are inconsistent with that diagnosis.