Question

A nurse is assessing a client who is receiving intravenous medications. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a manifestation of respiratory acidosis?

a) Increased respiratory rate
b) pH above 7.45
c) Decreased PaCO₂
d) Alkaline urine

Answer 1

Respiratory acidosis is characterized by an accumulation of carbon dioxide in the blood, leading to decreased pH and increased bicarbonate levels. The nurse should identify decreased PaCO₂ as a manifestation of respiratory acidosis.

Step-by-step explanation:

Respiratory acidosis is a condition where there is an excessive accumulation of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the blood. This leads to a decrease in pH and an increase in bicarbonate (HCO3¯) levels to compensate. The correct manifestation of respiratory acidosis that the nurse should identify is decreased PaCO₂. This is because respiratory acidosis is caused by hypoventilation, which results in the retention of CO₂ in the bloodstream.