Question

A 35-year-client is admitted to the hospital with diabetic ketoacidosis. Results of arterial blood gases are pH 7.2, PaO2 90, PaCO2 45, and HCO3 16. The nursing assessment of arterial blood gases indicates the presence of:

a.Metabolic acidosis
b.Metabolic alkalosis
c.Respiratory acidosis
d.Respiratory alkalosis

Answer 1

The nursing assessment indicates the presence of metabolic acidosis based on the arterial blood gas results.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nursing assessment of arterial blood gases in this case indicates the presence of metabolic acidosis. The pH value is below the normal range of 7.35-7.45, indicating acidosis. The HCO3 value is lower than normal, further confirming metabolic acidosis.