What results are consistent with compensated metabolic alkalosis?

Compensated metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an elevated arterial blood pH due to an excess of bicarbonate in the blood and the body's attempt to restore normal pH levels through respiratory compensation. In this state, the body retains carbon dioxide (CO2) to help increase acidity and counterbalance the alkalinity created by high bicarbonate (HCO3-).

When metabolic alkalosis occurs, the kidneys may retain bicarbonate or the condition may arise from excessive loss of acid (like vomiting). To compensate, the respiratory system will reduce the rate of breathing to retain CO2, thereby increasing the partial pressure of CO2 in the blood. This leads to an increased concentration of HCO3- in the blood as the primary driver of the alkalosis remains, while CO2 is also high due to the respiratory compensation.

The correct choice reflects the findings: an increased pH indicates a more alkaline environment, increased CO2 due to respiratory compensation, and increased HCO3- confirming the metabolic alkalosis and the compensatory mechanisms in play. This understanding is crucial for medical technologists as it enables accurate interpretation of blood gas results in assessing a patient's acid-base status.