Case: 30-year female presented with complain of mild shortness of breath. Patient sodium was 139 meq/l, Potassium was 3.5meq/l, Chloride was 107meq/l, bicarbonate was 20. Patient pH on arterial blood gas revealed pCO₂of 25 and pH of 7.45. What is the underlying acid base disturbances.

   
A) Metabolic acidosis
B) Metabolic Alkalosis
C) Respiratory acidosis
D) Respiratory alkalosis

Answer: D.  -  Respiratory Alkalosis

Rationale: Patient ph is 7,45 making it alkalosis, and the bicarbonate is not high, whereas the pCO₂ on arterial blood gas is low suugestive of respiratory alkalosis, as can be seen in the pregnant patient or in severe acute anxiety.