Why is the answer to this question Metabolic Alkalosis?

[Nursing2102]

Normal values:

pH (7.35-7.45)

pO2(90-100)

pCO2 (35-45)

HCO3(24-32)

Question:

What is this clients disorder?

--> Client with an NG Tube has a pH of 7.50 (Alkalosis), pO2 90 (normal), PCO2 of 42 (normal) and HCO3 25 (normal)

Answer: Metabolic Alkalosis.

.

... I understand why it is alkalosis, but why is it metabolic if the HCO3 is in the normal range???

Thanks.

[nurseprnRN, BSN, RN]

Just wanted to let everyone know, my classmate e-mailed the professor about this question and she confirmed that it was a mistake and the bicarb should have been a 35, not 25!

A-HA! I knew it! It was the only thing that made sense.