A client is admitted to the emergency department (ED) in respiratory distress. The results of his arterial blood gases are the following: pH = 7.30; PCO2 = 40; HCO3 = 19 mEq/l; PO2 = 80. The nurse interprets the findings as which of the following?
1) Respiratory acidosis with normal oxygen levels
2) Respiratory alkalosis with hypoxia
3) Metabolic acidosis with normal oxygen levels
4) Metabolic alkalosis with hypoxia
Question 2
A patient is admitted to the emergency department (ED) in respiratory distress. The results of his first arterial blood gases were: pH = 7.30; PCO2 = 40; HCO3 = 19 mEq/l; PO2 = 80.
The nurse evaluates the patient's treatment plan by examining repeat arterial blood gases (ABGs). The results are: pH = 7.38; PCO2 = 32; HCO3 = 19 mEq/l. The nurse concludes which of the following?
1) Respiratory acidosis; the treatment plan is ineffective
2) Metabolic alkalosis; the treatment plan is effective
3) Partial compensation; the treatment plan is ineffective
4) Complete compensation; the treatment plan is effective