The nurse is caring for a patient whose ABG results reveal the following: pH 7.56, PaCO 2 32 mm Hg, HCO 3 42 mEq/L, PaO 2 90 mm Hg. Which condition will the nurse expect to see in the patient's chart as the underlying cause of these results?
A) Gastroenteritis with severe nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
B) Widespread tissue ischemia caused by cardiogenic shock
C) Respiratory failure caused by pneumonia with pleural effusions
D) Hyperventilation after a panic attack

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Gastroenteritis with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea will lead to a metabolic alkalosis resulting from loss of electrolytes and acids through emesis and loose stools. Metabolic alkalosis features the elevated pH of 7.56, elevated HCOS1U1B13S1U1B0 42 mEq/L and normal PaCOS1U1B12S1U1B0 of 32 mm Hg. Widespread tissue ischemia would lead to metabolic acidosis with low pH resulting from release of lactic acid from the tissues. Respiratory failure leads to a respiratory acidosis with a low pH and elevated PaCOS1U1B12S1U1B0 level. Hyperventilation leads to respiratory alkalosis with an elevated pH and elevated HCOS1U1B13S1U1B0 level.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Whose ABG Results