The nurse interprets which arterial blood gas values as partially compensated metabolic acidosis?
a. pH 7.28, HCO3– 19 mEq/L, PCO2 45 mm Hg, PO2 96 mm Hg
b. pH 7.45, HCO3– 22 mEq/L, PCO2 40 mm Hg, PO2 98 mm Hg
c. pH 7.32, HCO3– 17 mEq/L, PCO2 25 mm Hg, PO2 98 mm Hg
d. pH 7.48, HCO3– 28 mEq/L, PCO2 45 mm Hg, PO2 92 mm Hg
C
The pH is lower than normal, indicating mild acidosis. The acidosis is metabolic in origin, as indicated by the normal arterial oxygen partial pressure and the low bicarbonate level. The decreased carbon dioxide level indicates an increased respiratory rate, causing the carbon dioxide to be blown off and bringing the pH closer to normal (but not completely normal). Thus, the metabolic acidosis is only partially compensated for by the respiratory effort.
You might also like to view...
The critical care nurse admitting a 55-year-old male with acute pancreatitis is aware that acute pancreatitis occurs when:
A) Toxic substances inflame the pancreas. B) The patient abuses alcohol. C) Viruses digest the pancreas. D) Pancreatic enzymes digest the pancreas.
While receiving discharge teaching, an adult client recovering from a prostatectomy is distressed to learn that episodes of incontinence may occur. Which should the nurse teach the client to help minimize incontinence?
A) Proper administration of incontinence medication B) Steps to change the Foley catheter bag every day C) Fluid restriction D) Kegel exercises
Which of the following would be the most important health assessment focus for middle adulthood?
1) Cancer screening with the annual health examinations 2) Seeking information about consistent use of seat belts 3) Screening for eating disorders 4) Mental status exam for cognitive changes
A patient with a hip fracture may complain of pain in the knee.
Answer the following statement true (T) or false (F)