A patient with a pH of 7.2 and a bicarbonate level of 18 mmol/L is likely to have which type of acid-base disturbance?

A Metabolic acidosis with respiratory alkalosis
B Respiratory acidosis with metabolic alkalosis
C Metabolic acidosis with compensatory respiratory alkalosis ✓
D Mixed metabolic and respiratory acidosis

Explanation

The patient's low pH and low bicarbonate level indicate a metabolic acidosis, while the compensatory increase in respiratory rate (not shown) would lead to a respiratory alkalosis.

Source

Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine
Electrolytes and Acid-Base Balance Acid-Base Physiology Mixed Acid-Base Disorders Hard MEDICAL Confidence: medium