Physiological Adaptation

The nurse is caring for a client who presents to the ED with the following arterial blood gas (ABG) results:

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The nurse is caring for a client who presents to the ED with the following arterial blood gas (ABG) results:

  1. pH 7.32

  2. PaCO2 47 mm Hg

  3. HCO3 24 mEq/L

  4. PaO2 91 mm Hg

Which clinical manifestation would the nurse anticipate, based on these findings?

  • confusion
  • nausea and vomiting
  • deep, rapid respirations
  • hypoventilation with hypoxia
Number 4 is correct.
These ABGs indicate acute respiratory acidosis. Common signs of respiratory acidosis include hypoventilation with hypoxia, disorientation, and dizziness. Untreated respiratory acidosis can progress to ventricular fibrillation, low blood pressure, seizures, and coma. The other options are signs of metabolic acidosis. If metabolic acidosis is severe, it can cause nausea and vomiting.
NCLEX.ME Nurse