Question

The nurse is caring for a client who has the following ABG results: pH 7.32, PaO₂ 88 mmHg, PaCO₂ 37 mmHg, and HCO3 16 mmol/L. Which of the following interpretations would the nurse document?

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

Answer 1

The client's ABG results indicating a pH of 7.32, PaCO₂ of 37 mmHg, and HCO3 of 16 mmol/L reflects a primary metabolic acidosis with no evidence of respiratory compensation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The client's arterial blood gas (ABG) results show a pH of 7.32, PaO₂ of 88 mmHg, PaCO₂ of 37 mmHg, and HCO3 of 16 mmol/L. To interpret these results, we must consider the normal ranges for pH which is 7.35-7.45, PaCO₂ which is 35-45 mmHg, and HCO3 which is 22-26 mmol/L.

Given the client's pH is below the normal range, this indicates acidosis. The PaCO₂ is within the normal range, suggesting it is not a primary cause of the acidosis. However, the HCO3 is below the normal range. Therefore, these findings are consistent with a primary metabolic acidosis. There is no evidence of compensation as the PaCO₂ is not decreased, which would be expected if the respiratory system were compensating for the metabolic acidosis.

In conclusion, the nurse would document option d. Metabolic acidosis as the interpretation of the client's ABG results.