Question

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

a) Respiratory alkalosis with decreased pH
b) Increased pH with elevated carbon dioxide levels
c) Metabolic acidosis with increased bicarbonate levels
d) Respiratory acidosis with decreased carbon dioxide levels

Answer 1

A client with advanced COPD can be expected to have respiratory acidosis with increased carbon dioxide levels in their ABG results.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should expect the client with advanced COPD to have respiratory acidosis with increased carbon dioxide levels. COPD affects the lungs and impairs the ability to effectively eliminate carbon dioxide from the body. As a result, carbon dioxide levels in the blood increase, leading to respiratory acidosis. This condition is characterized by decreased pH and increased carbon dioxide levels.