On admission,a patient presents with a respiratory rate of 28 breaths/min,heart rate of 108 beats/min in sinus tachycardia,and a blood pressure of 140/72 mm Hg.The patient's arterial blood gas (ABG)values on room air are PaO₂,60 mm Hg; pH,7.32; PaCO₂,45 mm Hg; andHCO₃¯ ,26 mEq/L.What action should the nurse anticipate for this patient?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient is hypoxemic and oxygen therapy should be initiated at this time.The patient's arterial blood gas (ABG)values do not warrant intubation at this time.Sodium bicarbonate is not indicated because this patient has a normal bicarbonate level.Capnography would not be indicated at this time as the patient's CO₂ is normal.A repeat ABG may be ordered to assess the patient's ongoing respiratory status.

On Admission,a Patient Presents with a Respiratory Rate of 28