Final answer:
A nurse would expect a patient with symptoms of hyperventilation to have changes in their ABG values, most likely a decrease in c) pCO2, leading to respiratory alkalosis. Without ABG results, it's challenging to determine the exact pH or compensatory HCO3- changes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to a patient reporting difficulty breathing with a respiratory rate of 36/min and manifestations of restlessness and tingling in both hands. Given these symptoms, the nurse would anticipate the lab values for pH, pCO2, and HCO3- to determine if the patient is experiencing acidosis or alkalosis and whether it is related to respiratory or metabolic function.
Based on the reference table and the patient's symptoms indicative of hyperventilation (increased respiratory rate), the nurse would likely expect a change in the arterial blood gas (ABG) values. In particular, a decline in pCO2 due to increased respiration would be expected, potentially leading to respiratory alkalosis. However, without ABG results, it is difficult to determine with certainty if the patient's pH is below or above the normal range, or if HCO3- is compensating for the shift in pCO2.
In this clinical scenario, a lowered pCO2 value would be anticipated, possibly with an altered pH and HCO3- as compensatory responses. Signs of tingling in hands (paresthesia), difficulty breathing, and a raised respiratory rate are indicative of respiratory alkalosis where the body attempts to compensate by decreasing pCO2 levels in the blood through faster breathing. However, if the condition continues, it may lead to compensatory changes in HCO3- levels, which is part of the body's attempt to maintain a normal pH.