The client was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) for respiratory acidosis secondary to smoke inhalation and exposure to caustic gases. After placement of an endotracheal tube and connection to a mechanical ventilator, the arterial blood gas results are pH = 7.28; partial pressure of oxygen (PaO₂)= 85; partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO₂)= 60. What changes to care does the nurse anticipate? A)Wean the client from the ventilator. B)Increase the concentration of oxygen delivered. C)Decrease the concentration of oxygen delivered. D)Increase the number of breaths per minute on the ventilator.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The arterial blood gas (ABG) results indicate respiratory acidosis (pH = 7.28, PaCO2 = 60), suggesting that the client is retaining too much CO2. Increasing the number of breaths per minute on the ventilator will help to eliminate more CO2, correcting the acidosis.

The Client Was Admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU)