A patient has been admitted to the critical care unit with the diagnosis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).Arterial blood gasses (ABGs)revealed an elevated pH and decreased PaCO₂.The patient is becoming fatigued, and the health care provider orders a repeat ABG.The nurse anticipates the following results

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Arterial blood gas analysis reveals a low PaO₂ despite increases in supplemental oxygen administration (refractory hypoxemia).Initially, the PaCO₂ is low as a result of hyperventilation, but eventually the PaCO₂ increases as the patient fatigues.The pH is high initially but decreases as respiratory acidosis develops.

A Patient Has Been Admitted to the Critical Care Unit