In compensated respiratory alkalosis, which analyte would be decreased?

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Multiple Choice

In compensated respiratory alkalosis, which analyte would be decreased?

In respiratory alkalosis, the primary issue is low CO2 from increased ventilation. The body then partially compensates by the kidneys reducing bicarbonate to bring the pH back toward normal. Because the root cause lowers CO2, the level of ECO2 remains decreased even after compensation. Lactate isn’t a direct marker of this acid–base disturbance, and while potassium can fall in alkalosis, it isn’t the defining change of compensated respiratory alkalosis.

In respiratory alkalosis, the primary issue is low CO2 from increased ventilation. The body then partially compensates by the kidneys reducing bicarbonate to bring the pH back toward normal. Because the root cause lowers CO2, the level of ECO2 remains decreased even after compensation. Lactate isn’t a direct marker of this acid–base disturbance, and while potassium can fall in alkalosis, it isn’t the defining change of compensated respiratory alkalosis.

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