Question: Brian's blood pH is 7.5, which means he is in alkalosis. His pCO2 is in the normal range, but his HCO3? is elevated at 30 mEq/L, so this is a metabolic alkalosis rather than a respiratory problem. Because this situation is chronic, the renal system will try to compensate by changing how the renal tubules handle the bicarbonate buffer and H? ions. The kidneys will start to excrete more bicarbonate into the urine and will keep more H? ions in the blood. Over time, this lowers the bicarbonate level, allows H? ions to rise, and slowly brings the pH back toward normal. Need Assignment Help?