A client is admitted to the emergency department (ED)in respiratory distress.The results of his arterial blood gases are the following: pH = 7.30; PCO₂ = 40; HCO₃ = 19 mEq/L; PO₂ = 80.The nurse interprets the findings as which of the following? A) Respiratory acidosis with normal oxygen levels B) Respiratory alkalosis with hypoxia C) Metabolic acidosis with normal oxygen levels D) Metabolic alkalosis with hypoxia

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The pH is acidotic.The HCO₃ of 19 mEq/L is low and has moved in the same direction as the pH,indicating a metabolic disorder.The PCO₂ is within normal range with no signs of compensation.The PO₂ level is normal.

A Client Is Admitted to the Emergency Department (ED)in Respiratory