Certified Pediatric Nurse Exam Practice 2026 – Complete Study Resource

In a child with pyloric stenosis, the expected laboratory findings reflect the metabolic alkalosis that often occurs due to persistent vomiting. The condition leads to the loss of gastric acid, which contains hydrochloric acid (HCl). As a result, the child may demonstrate an elevated pH level due to the loss of acidity and a compensatory increase in bicarbonate (HCO3).

When evaluating the options provided, the finding of a pH of 7.49 indicates alkalosis, which aligns with metabolic alkalosis, and the bicarbonate level of 29 is elevated, supporting the body's compensatory response to the loss of hydrogen ions through vomiting. This combination is characteristic of a child experiencing pyloric stenosis-related metabolic alkalosis.

In contrast, the other options contain either a lower pH or lower bicarbonate levels, which do not accurately reflect the physiological changes seen in pyloric stenosis. A pH of 7.32, for example, suggests acidosis, which is inconsistent with the typical metabolic status of a child with this condition. Therefore, the laboratory findings in the correct choice clearly illustrate the expected physiological response to pyloric stenosis.