Question

A nurse is caring for a client who reports difficulty breathing and tingling in both hands. His respiratory rate is 36/min and he appears very restless. Which of the following values should the nurse anticipate to be outside the expected reference range if the client is experiencing respiratory alkalosis?

a) PₐO₂
b) PₐCO₂
c) Sodium
d) Bicarbonate

Answer 1

In respiratory alkalosis, the value of pCO₂ is expected to be outside the reference range.

Step-by-step explanation:

If the client is experiencing respiratory alkalosis, the nurse should anticipate that the value of pCO₂ (partial pressure of carbon dioxide) will be outside the expected reference range. Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by low levels of CO₂ in the bloodstream, which leads to alkalinity. Therefore, the nurse should expect a decrease in the normal range of pCO₂.