A 30-year-old male is involved in a motor vehicle accident and sustains trauma to the lungs and chest wall.He experiences respiratory failure.Which of the following lab values would the nurse expect? A) Electrolyte imbalances B) Elevated PaCO₂ C) Low hematocrit D) Elevated pH

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In respiratory failure,inadequate gas exchange occurs such that PaO₂ = 50 mm Hg or PaCO₂ = 50 mm Hg with pH = 7.25. Electrolyte imbalances do not occur,but changes in blood gas values do. Hematocrit may be unaffected. pH will be decreased.

A 30-Year-Old Male Is Involved in a Motor Vehicle Accident