A preschool-aged client, diagnosed with croup, has an increased pCO₂, a decreased pH, and a normal HCO₃ blood-gas value. Which documentation in the medical record is the most appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Increased pCO₂ (partial pressure of carbon dioxide) and decreased pH indicate acidosis. Normal HCO₃ (bicarbonate) suggests that compensation has not yet occurred. Since the client has croup, which is a respiratory condition, the acidosis is likely due to impaired gas exchange in the lungs, resulting in retained carbon dioxide. Therefore, the most appropriate documentation is uncompensated respiratory acidosis.

A Preschool-Aged Client, Diagnosed with Croup, Has an Increased PCO2

A Preschool-Aged Client, Diagnosed with Croup, Has an Increased PCO₂