A nurse is caring for a client who is anxious and dizzy after a traumatic experience. The arterial blood gas findings include a pH level of 7.48, partial pressure of oxygen at 110, partial pressure of carbon dioxide at 25, and bicarbonate at 2D. Which initial intervention does the nurse implement?
A)Administer antidepressants
B)Administer oxygen through a mask
C)Encourage the client to breathe into a paper bag
D)Administer sodium bicarbonate intravenously

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The client's arterial blood gas findings indicate respiratory alkalosis (pH level of 7.48 and low partial pressure of carbon dioxide at 25), likely due to hyperventilation from anxiety. Breathing into a paper bag helps to rebreathe carbon dioxide, correcting the imbalance.

A Nurse Is Caring for a Client Who Is Anxious