After the arterial blood gas test results are reviewed, a client with signs of diabetic ketoacidosis is diagnosed with metabolic acidosis. The nurse caring for the client expects to note which of the following laboratory results in the client's chart?
A)Low pH; low bicarbonate concentration
B)High pH; high bicarbonate concentration
C)Low pH; high PCO2
D)High pH; low PCO2

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A client with metabolic acidosis would have a low pH and low bicarbonate concentration on the arterial blood gas test. Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and high bicarbonate concentration. Respiratory acidosis is characterized by low pH and high PCO2. A client with respiratory alkalosis would have a high pH and low PCO2.

After the Arterial Blood Gas Test Results Are Reviewed, a Client