A patient's arterial blood gas results are pH 7.30, PaCO2 55 mmHg and HCO3 24 mEq/L. How should the nurse interpret these results?
Correct answer: A. Uncompensated respiratory acidosis
- A. Uncompensated respiratory acidosis
- B. Uncompensated metabolic acidosis
- C. Uncompensated respiratory alkalosis
- D. Fully compensated metabolic alkalosis
Explanation
The low pH shows acidosis, and the raised PaCO2 identifies a respiratory cause. The normal bicarbonate indicates that metabolic compensation has not yet occurred, making this uncompensated respiratory acidosis.
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About Respiratory Nursing
Covers nursing assessment and management of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pneumonia, tuberculosis, pleural disorders and respiratory failure. Key areas include breath sounds, oxygen therapy, airway suctioning, inhaled medicines, arterial blood gases and the difference between hypoxia, hypoxemia and carbon dioxide retention.
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