The nurse is caring for a client that has had a nasogastric tube to low wall suction for 5 days. Which acid/base imbalance would the nurse expect to see in this client?

A. Metabolic acidosis: Metabolic acidosis occurs when there is an excess of hydrogen ions or a loss of bicarbonate, as seen in conditions like diarrhea or renal failure. Nasogastric suction primarily removes gastric hydrochloric acid, which does not cause acidosis, this is not the expected imbalance. B. Respiratory acidosis: Respiratory acidosis results from hypoventilation, leading to CO₂ retention and decreased pH. NG suction does not directly affect respiratory function or CO₂ levels, so this is unlikely. C. Metabolic alkalosis: Prolonged nasogastric suction removes hydrochloric acid from the stomach. The loss of H⁺ ions leads to a rise in blood pH, creating a metabolic alkalosis. This is a classic complication of continuous or prolonged NG suction, especially over several days. D. Respiratory alkalosis: Respiratory alkalosis is caused by hyperventilation, resulting in decreased CO₂ levels. NG suction does not induce hyperventilation or CO₂ loss, this imbalance is not expected.