A patient with severe diarrhea is at risk for developing which type of acid-base imbalance due to the loss of bicarbonate ions?

A Metabolic acidosis ✓
B Metabolic alkalosis
C Respiratory acidosis
D Respiratory alkalosis

Explanation

Severe diarrhea can lead to the loss of bicarbonate ions, resulting in metabolic acidosis.

Mnemonic

'Diarrhea = Acid' → loss of bicarbonate

Source

Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine
Electrolytes and Acid-Base Balance Pathophysiology Acid-Base Imbalance Medium MEDICAL Confidence: high