An elderly client is demonstrating lethargy, confusion, and a respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute. The nurse sees that the last dose of medication administered through a client-controlled analgesic pump was within the last 30 minutes. Which acid-base disorder might the client have developed?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The client is likely experiencing respiratory acidosis, which is characterized by an increased level of carbon dioxide in the blood due to inadequate ventilation. The slow respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute is contributing to the retention of carbon dioxide. The client-controlled analgesic pump may be causing respiratory depression, which in turn is leading to the development of respiratory acidosis. Metabolic acidosis and alkalosis are caused by changes in the levels of bicarbonate and hydrogen ions in the blood, while respiratory acidosis and alkalosis are caused by changes in carbon dioxide levels. Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by hyperventilation, which would not be present in this scenario.

An Elderly Client Is Demonstrating Lethargy, Confusion, and a Respiratory