The nurse is assessing a client with a diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbation. Which finding would be expected for this client?

  1. hypoxemia and hypocarbia
  2. hyperoxemia and hypocarbia
  3. hypoxemia and hypercarbia
  4. hyperoxemia and hypercarbia
Number 3 is correct.
Rationale: As COPD worsens, blood oxygen levels decrease (hypoxemia) and carbon dioxide increases (hypercarbia). Options 1, 2, and 4 do not reflect the expected ABG results.