A patient diagnosed with emphysema is being prepared for surgery. What laboratory value should the nurse review to obtain information about the patient's respiratory status?
1. carbon dioxide
2. white blood cell count
3. serum creatinine
4. blood urea nitrogen
Correct Answer: 1
The carbon dioxide level will be elevated in a patient with emphysema. This is the laboratory value that would provide information about the patient's respiratory status. White blood cell count would provide information regarding an infection or immune deficiency. The serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels provide information about the patient's renal status.
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