AIIMS BBSR SNO - 2019
Applied Physiology
Easy

The pH of arterial plasma in healthy individuals is?

Appeared in: AIIMS BBSR SNO - 2019

Explanation

  • 4, which is the average pH of arterial blood in a healthy person.
  • The normal physiological range for arterial blood pH is very narrow, from 7.35 to 7.45.
  • This slightly alkaline state is essential for the proper functioning of enzymes, metabolic processes, and oxygen delivery to tissues.
  • The body's buffer systems, along with the lungs and kidneys, work continuously to maintain this precise balance.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

  • Option A: A pH of 7.5 is above the normal range of 7.35-7.45. This value indicates a state of mild alkalosis, where the blood is too basic.
  • Option B: A pH of 7.6 is significantly above the normal range and indicates a more severe state of alkalosis. This level of imbalance can be dangerous.
  • Option D: A pH of 7.2 is below the normal range of 7.35-7.45. This value indicates a state of acidosis, where the blood is too acidic.

Related Visual

Visual explanation — Related Visual
Clinical Relevance
  • Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Normal arterial blood pH as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
  • Nurses frequently monitor patients' acid-base balance through Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) analysis, especially in critical care settings.
  • Understanding the normal pH range is fundamental for interpreting ABG results and identifying life-threatening conditions like acidosis or alkalosis.
  • The nurse's role includes proper collection of ABG samples, interpreting the results in the context of the patient's condition, and implementing prescribed interventions.
How to Approach the Question
  • First, identify the key concept in the question, which is the normal pH of arterial plasma.
  • This is a factual recall question that requires knowledge of basic human physiology.
  • Recall the specific normal range for arterial blood pH, which is 7.35 to 7.45.
  • Evaluate the given options to see which one falls within this normal range.
  • Option 7.4 is the standard average value within the 7.35-7.45 range, making it the most accurate answer.
Concept Tested & Keywords
  • Concept Tested: Normal arterial blood pH
  • Stem keywords: pH, arterial plasma, healthy individuals
  • Lead-in keywords: BEST, MOST RELEVANT CLUE
  • Negative lead-in flag: false

Question ID

QmGie7W5mcLL1a_CbZ2RdV

Reference Book

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 5 p. 54-56

E6 Physiology Guyton 4SAE Part 2B p. 66-68

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