Certified Dialysis Nurse Practice Test 2025 - Free Dialysis Nurse Practice Questions and Study Guide.

Hypotension is commonly observed in patients with metabolic acidosis due to several physiological changes in the body as a response to the acid-base imbalance. Metabolic acidosis can lead to systemic vasodilation, which reduces vascular resistance and can result in a decrease in blood pressure. Additionally, the body's compensatory mechanisms may not sufficiently increase heart rate or cardiac output to offset the drop in pressure, particularly in cases where the acidosis is severe.

In this context, the retention of acid by the kidneys or a buildup of metabolic byproducts can also impact cardiovascular function, contributing to overall lower blood pressure values. This is especially true in patients with existing renal issues or when acidosis is linked to conditions such as sepsis, where fluid shifts and decreased perfusion play a role.

Other blood pressure issues like hypertension or isolated systolic hypertension are less typical in metabolic acidosis, as the body's tendency under this condition is usually towards lower blood pressure due to the aforementioned mechanisms. While orthostatic hypotension may be relevant in certain situations, the overarching issue in metabolic acidosis remains the tendency toward hypotension.