A patient who has required prolonged mechanical ventilation has the following arterial blood gas results: pH 7.48,PO₂ 85 mm Hg,PCO₂ 32 mm Hg,and HCO₃^- 25 mmol/L.How would the nurse interpret these results?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The pH is elevated (alkalotic), the partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) is normal, and the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2) is decreased, which indicates respiratory alkalosis. The bicarbonate (HCO3-) is within normal range, ruling out metabolic compensation. This is a common finding in patients on mechanical ventilation who have been overventilated.

A Patient Who Has Required Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation Has the Following