Question

A nurse is reviewing the ABG results of a client who has advanced COPD. Which of the following results should the nurse expect?

A) pH 7.50
B) PaCO2 60 mm Hg
C) HCO3 22 mEq/L
D) PaO2 100 mm Hg

Answer 1

The ABG results of a client with advanced COPD would indicate respiratory acidosis, which would be reflected by an elevated level of PaCO2.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should expect the following ABG results in a client with advanced COPD:

A) pH 7.50 - This is an alkalotic condition and not typically expected in advanced COPD.

B) PaCO2 60 mm Hg - This is an elevated level of carbon dioxide, which is consistent with respiratory acidosis.

C) HCO3 22 mEq/L - This is a normal level of bicarbonate and does not indicate any acid-base imbalance.

D) PaO2 100 mm Hg - This is a normal level of oxygen arterial pressure and does not indicate any acid-base imbalance.

Therefore, the nurse should expect results B) PaCO2 60 mm Hg, which indicates respiratory acidosis.