Question

An unconscious patient with increased ICP is on ventilatory support. The nurse notifies the health care provider when arterial blood gas measurement results reveal a

a. pH of 7.43
b. SaO2 of 94%
c. PaO2 of 50 mm Hg
d. PaCO2 of 30 mm Hg

Answer 1

The nurse should notify the health care provider when the arterial blood gas measurement results reveal a PaO2 of 50 mmHg. In a patient with increased intracranial pressure (ICP), a low PaO2 indicates poor oxygenation, which can further worsen the patient's condition and increase the risk of brain damage.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should notify the health care provider when the arterial blood gas measurement results reveal a PaO2 of 50 mmHg. In a patient with increased intracranial pressure (ICP), a low PaO2 indicates poor oxygenation, which can further worsen the patient's condition and increase the risk of brain damage. A PaO2 below 60 mmHg is generally considered abnormal and requires intervention.