A patient with a lower respiratory infection has pH of 7.25,PaCO₂ of 55 mm Hg,and HCO₃- of 20 mEq/L.The physician has been notified.Which is the priority nursing intervention for this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

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

A Patient with a Lower Respiratory Infection Has PH of 7.25,PaCO₂