Final answer:
A client with status asthmaticus not receiving treatment is at risk for hypercapnia, a condition with elevated blood CO₂ levels, leading to respiratory acidosis. The condition occurs due to obstructed airways, preventing effective exhaling and CO₂ removal.
Step-by-step explanation:
A client diagnosed with status asthmaticus who is not receiving medical treatment is at risk for developing a few complications, one of which is hypercapnia. Hypercapnia is a condition characterized by abnormally elevated levels of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the blood, occurring due to impaired respiration. In the case of status asthmaticus, severe and prolonged asthma attacks can lead to significantly impaired gas exchange, resulting in the retention of CO₂ and respiratory acidosis.
Status asthmaticus can contribute to increased blood CO₂ levels due to inflammation and obstruction in the airways, which makes it exceedingly difficult for the person to exhale fully and rid their body of carbon dioxide. This leads to respiratory acidosis, indicated by a higher pH and normal or elevated bicarbonate levels. The body may attempt to compensate by increasing renal reabsorption of bicarbonate, but without effective resolution of the respiratory issue, this compensation is limited.