The nurse is reviewing the laboratory results for a client, which are blood pH 7.36, PCO₂48 mm Hg, PO₂96 mm Hg, HCO₃24 mEq/L, and SaO₂98% on room air. Which condition does the nurse recognize based on the displayed values? A)Hypoxia B)Respiratory acidosis C)Hypercapnia D)Metabolic alkalosis

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The laboratory results indicate a normal blood pH (7.36) and a high partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2) (48 mm Hg), which suggests hypercapnia (elevated CO2 levels in the blood). Hypercapnia often results from hypoventilation or lung diseases that impair gas exchange. The other parameters such as oxygen saturation (SaO2) at 98% on room air and bicarbonate (HCO3-) level at 24 mEq/L are within normal ranges, ruling out hypoxia, respiratory acidosis, and metabolic alkalosis.

The Nurse Is Reviewing the Laboratory Results for a Client