A client is admitted to the emergency department (ED)in respiratory distress.The results of his arterial blood gases are pH = 7.30; PCO₂= 40; HCO₃ = 19 mEq/L; PO₂ = 80.How should the nurse interpret these results? 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 arterial blood gas (ABG) results show a pH of 7.30, which is below the normal range (7.35-7.45), indicating acidosis. The PCO2 is normal at 40 mmHg, suggesting that the respiratory system is not the primary cause of the acidosis. The HCO3- is low at 19 mEq/L, indicating a metabolic cause for the acidosis. The PO2 is 80 mmHg, which is within the normal range (75-100 mmHg), indicating normal oxygen levels. Therefore, the correct interpretation is metabolic acidosis with normal oxygen levels.

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