Alkalosis refers to which of the following pH ranges?

• A. Below 7.35.
• B. Between 7.1 and 7.3.
• C. Above 7.45.
• D. Exactly 7.40.

Answer: (C)

Alkalosis means the blood is more basic than normal, so the pH is higher than the normal upper limit. Normal arterial pH is about 7.35 to 7.45. An alkalotic state occurs when the pH goes above 7.45. The other ranges describe acidity (below 7.35) or normal pH (around 7.40). Therefore, the range above 7.45 is the correct description of alkalosis.