An elderly postoperative patient is demonstrating lethargy, confusion, and a respiratory rate of 8 per minute. The nurse sees that the last dose of pain medication administered via a patient-controlled anesthesia (PCA) pump was less than 30 minutes ago. This patient is most likely experiencing which acid-base disorder?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The respiratory rate of 8 per minute indicates hypoventilation, which results in carbon dioxide retention and respiratory acidosis. The patient's lethargy and confusion may also be attributed to the effects of opioid medication on respiratory drive.

An Elderly Postoperative Patient Is Demonstrating Lethargy, Confusion, and a Respiratory