During surgery, a patient's respiratory rate drops and they begin to have heart arrhythmias. The physician orders a blood gas panel, and the results show pH 7.20, PCO₂ 62, P02 86, and HCO323. Which of the following conditions is the patient most likely to have?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient in this situation is most likely suffering from respiratory acidosis. This occurs when the pH level drops lower than normal and the PCO₂ is increased. Additionally, the patient may have respiratory or cardiac changes, which tell the nurse that they need to provide greater respiratory support to try and normalize blood gas levels.

During Surgery, a Patient's Respiratory Rate Drops and They Begin