A nurse is reviewing the arterial blood gas (ABG) results for a client who is experiencing… — NCLEX-RN

A nurse is reviewing the arterial blood gas (ABG) results for a client who is experiencing acute respiratory distress. The results show a pH of $7.25$ , $\text{PaCO}_2$ of $60\text{ mm Hg}$ , and $\text{HCO}_3^-$ of $24\text{ mEq/L}$ . Based on these values, which acid-base imbalance is the client experiencing?

A
Uncompensated metabolic acidosis
B
Partially compensated respiratory alkalosis
Uncompensated respiratory acidosisAnswer
D
Fully compensated metabolic alkalosis

Answer

Uncompensated respiratory acidosis

The correct answer identifies uncompensated respiratory acidosis. The pH of

7.25

is below the normal range (

7.35

7.45

), which confirms an acidotic state. The

\text{PaCO}_2

60\text{ mm Hg}

is elevated above the normal range (

35

45\text{ mm Hg}

), matching the acidosis and indicating a respiratory etiology. Because the

\text{HCO}_3^-

24\text{ mEq/L}

remains within the normal limits (

22

26\text{ mEq/L}

), the kidneys have not yet initiated compensation.

Step-by-Step Solution

Analyze the client's pH value.

The pH is

7.25

, which is below the normal range of

7.35

7.45

This establishes that the primary state is acidemia (acidosis).

Evaluate the

\text{PaCO}_2

value.

The

\text{PaCO}_2

60\text{ mm Hg}

, which is above the normal range of

35

45\text{ mm Hg}

Because an elevated

\text{PaCO}_2

acts as an acid, this matches the acidotic pH and confirms a respiratory origin.

Assess the

\text{HCO}_3^-

value.

The

\text{HCO}_3^-

24\text{ mEq/L}

, which is well within the normal range of

22

26\text{ mEq/L}

A normal bicarbonate level indicates that the kidneys have not yet started to compensate for the respiratory disturbance.

Key Concept

Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Interpretation

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Answer

Step-by-Step Solution

Key Concept

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