A patient has coronary artery bypass graft surgery and is transported to the surgical intensive care unit at noon and is placed on mechanical ventilation.Interpret the initial arterial blood gas levels pH: 7.31
PaCO₂: 48 mm Hg
Bicarbonate: 22 mEq/L
PaO₂: 115 mm Hg
O₂ saturation: 99%

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The high PaO₂ level reflects hyperoxygenation; the PaCO₂ and pH levels show respiratory acidosis.The respiratory acidosis is uncompensated as indicated by a pH of 7.31 (acidosis)and a normal bicarbonate level.No metabolic compensation has occurred.

A Patient Has Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery and Is