An older adult client is exhibiting 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 symptoms of lethargy, confusion, and a decreased respiratory rate (8 breaths per minute) suggest hypoventilation, which can lead to an accumulation of carbon dioxide in the blood. This condition is known as respiratory acidosis, where the blood becomes more acidic due to the retention of CO2. The recent administration of medication through a client-controlled analgesic pump may have contributed to respiratory depression, further supporting the diagnosis of respiratory acidosis.

An Older Adult Client Is Exhibiting Lethargy, Confusion, and a Respiratory