Question

The nurse has just picked up 3 patients. Patient one has an ABG result that shows metabolic acidosis. Patient two has an ABG result of respiratory acidosis. Which patient does the nurse see first?

A. Patient one
B. Patient two

Answer 1

While the ABG results indicate metabolic acidosis for one patient and respiratory acidosis for another, clinically, respiratory acidosis often requires more immediate attention due to the higher risk of acute respiratory distress. correct answer is A) Patient one.

Step-by-step explanation:

When determining patient priority based on arterial blood gas (ABG) results showing metabolic acidosis and respiratory acidosis, the severity of clinical manifestations and potential for acute decompensation are important considerations. In clinical practice, respiratory acidosis, which may indicate acute respiratory distress, often requires more immediate attention than metabolic disturbances, unless the patient with metabolic acidosis is severely symptomatic. A direct comparison of ABG findings is not sufficient to determine patient acuity without clinical context. However, owing to the risk of compromised airway or breathing, a patient with respiratory acidosis could potentially be prioritized.

Patients with metabolic acidosis usually have a compensatory increase in their respiratory rate, leading to a decrease in PCO2. Given time, the kidneys may also compensate by increasing bicarbonate levels. On the contrary, in respiratory acidosis, the kidneys try to compensate by increasing bicarbonate retention, but if this state is severe or abrupt in onset, respiratory compromise could lead to life-threatening consequences without rapid intervention.