An arterial blood gas shows pH 7.25, PaCO2 60 mmHg and bicarbonate 25 mmol/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 acidaemia, and the raised PaCO2 identifies a respiratory cause. The bicarbonate is within the usual range, so there is no significant metabolic compensation shown in these results.
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About Critical Care and Emergency Nursing
Covers rapid assessment and stabilisation of patients with airway obstruction, respiratory failure, shock, cardiac arrest, sepsis, poisoning and major electrolyte disturbances. It includes triage, the ABCDE approach, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, ventilator and monitor care, emergency medicines and distinguishing life-threatening deterioration from stable illness.
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