Question

Which of the following would be most appropriate for a male client with an arterial blood gas (ABG) of pH 7.5, PaCO2 26 mm Hg, O2 saturation 96%, HCO3 24 mEq/L, and PaO2 94 mm Hg?

a. Instruct the client to breathe into a paper bag
b. Administer a prescribed decongestant
c. Offer the client fluids frequently
d. Administer prescribed supplemental oxygen.

Answer 1

Administering prescribed supplemental oxygen is the most appropriate intervention for a male client with the given arterial blood gas values to manage respiratory alkalosis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The arterial blood gas (ABG) values of the male client indicate an alkalotic condition due to a high pH level of 7.5, low PaCO2 level of 26 mm Hg, and normal HCO3 level of 24 mEq/L. The O2 saturation and PaO2 values are within the normal range. Based on these values, the most appropriate intervention for this client would be to administer prescribed supplemental oxygen for the management of respiratory alkalosis. This would help increase the levels of carbon dioxide in the blood, which is necessary to restore the acid-base balance.