A patient with a lower respiratory infection has a pH of 7.25,a PaCO₂ of 55 mm Hg,and a HCO₃^- level of 20 mmol/L (20 mEq/L).The physician has been notified.Which is the priority nursing intervention for this patient? A)Check the colour of the patient's urine output. B)Place the patient in Trendelenburg position. C)Encourage the patient to increase respirations. D)Place the patient in high Fowler's position.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient has respiratory acidosis from CO₂ retention.Increasing rate and depth of respiration enables the patient to blow off excess carbon dioxide,and this will begin to correct the imbalance.Checking the urine colour is not a necessary assessment.Trendelenburg position would probably make it more difficult for the patient to breathe and should be avoided.High Fowler's position may be more comfortable for the patient,but it is not necessary.

A Patient with a Lower Respiratory Infection Has a PH