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Maintain a PaCO_2 of approximately 35 mmHg.

A. Appropriate positioning for a client following abdominal surgery
B. Goal for a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
C. Recommended PaCO_2 level for a client in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
D. Instruction for a client with anxiety-related hyperventilation

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The maintenance of a PaCO2 level of approximately 35 mmHg is a goal for COPD patients to avoid respiratory acidosis, whereas this specific target is less critical in other conditions mentioned, like DKA or anxiety-related hyperventilation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The goal of maintaining a PaCO2 (partial pressure of carbon dioxide in arterial blood) of approximately 35 mmHg aligns with option B: Goal for a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This is because COPD patients commonly suffer from hypercapnia, and managing PaCO2 within a normal range is critical for avoiding respiratory acidosis. On the other hand, for clients in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), the focus is on correcting acidosis through insulin and fluid replacement more than targeting a specific CO2 level.

Control of carbonic acid levels in the blood through the respiratory system is essential to sustain acid-base balance. When CO2 levels rise, the respiratory system can alter breathing rates to expel more CO2. If respiratory function is compromised, as in COPD, the renal system may compensate over time by adjusting bicarbonate levels. However, with DKA, compensation involves the respiratory system increasing ventilation to blow off CO2 and decrease the acid load. It is worth noting that respiratory acidosis occurs when there is an excess of CO2 in the blood, and in response, bicarbonate levels may increase if renal compensation occurs.

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