The nurse is caring for a client who is being mechanically ventilated. Arterial blood gas analysis reveals a pH of 7.20 and a PaCO2 of 49 mmHg. Which change in ventilator settings should the nurse anticipate?
A) Increase in humidification of inspired air
B) Decrease of FiO2 from 30% to 25%
C) Increased respiratory rate to 30 breaths per minute
D) Decreased tidal volume of each breath
Answer: C
This client is exhibiting respiratory acidosis. This client needs to "blow off" more CO2; therefore, the respiratory rate would be increased. No other option given would serve to decrease CO2 levels.
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