Your patient is experiencing an asthmatic attack. Their respiratory rate is 30, 02 sats are 90% on room air and they are anxious. Which acid-base imbalance are you expecting to see when the ABG's result?

A. Metabolic alkalosis – This is typically caused by vomiting, diuretic use, or excessive bicarbonate intake, not respiratory conditions like asthma. B. Respiratory alkalosis – During an early asthmatic attack, the patient often hyperventilates due to anxiety and difficulty breathing, leading to excessive loss of CO₂. This decreases carbonic acid levels, causing respiratory alkalosis. C. Respiratory acidosis – Incorrect in early stages. This may develop later in a severe asthma attack when the patient tires and hypoventilation begins, leading to CO₂ retention. D. Metabolic acidosis – This imbalance is typically caused by conditions such as diabetic ketoacidosis, renal failure, or diarrhea, not hyperventilation or asthma.