In an individual with metabolic acidosis, a clue that the respiratory system is compensating is provided by a. high blood bicarbonate levels, b. low blood bicarbonate levels, c. rapid, deep breathing, d. slow, shallow breathing.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the condition of metabolic acidosis, which is characterized by a decrease in blood pH due to an accumulation of acid or a loss of bicarbonate.
2. Step 2: Recognize that the body compensates for metabolic acidosis primarily through the respiratory system by altering breathing patterns to adjust carbon dioxide (CO2) levels.
3. Step 3: Recall that CO2 is an acid in the blood, and its levels are regulated by the respiratory system. By changing the rate and depth of breathing, the body can influence CO2 levels.
4. Step 4: Consider that rapid, deep breathing (known as Kussmaul respiration) helps to expel more CO2 from the body, thereby reducing acidity and compensating for metabolic acidosis.
5. Step 5: Evaluate the options given and identify that rapid, deep breathing is the respiratory system's response to lower CO2 levels and compensate for the acidosis.

Key Concepts

Metabolic Acidosis

Metabolic acidosis is a condition characterized by an excess of acid in the body or a loss of bicarbonate, leading to a decrease in blood pH. It can result from various factors, including kidney dysfunction, diabetic ketoacidosis, or severe diarrhea. Understanding this condition is crucial for recognizing how the body attempts to restore acid-base balance.

Respiratory Compensation

Respiratory compensation refers to the body's mechanism to regulate blood pH by altering breathing patterns. In response to metabolic acidosis, the respiratory system increases the rate and depth of breathing to expel more carbon dioxide, which helps raise blood pH. This compensatory response is vital for maintaining homeostasis during acid-base disturbances.

Bicarbonate Levels

Bicarbonate (HCO3-) is a key buffer in the blood that helps maintain pH balance. In metabolic acidosis, bicarbonate levels typically decrease due to its consumption in neutralizing excess acids. Monitoring bicarbonate levels is essential for assessing the severity of acidosis and the effectiveness of compensatory mechanisms, such as respiratory changes.