The acid-base status of a patient is dependent on normal gas exchange. Which patient would the nurse identify as having an increased risk for the development of respiratory acidosis?
A) Chronic lung disease with increased carbon dioxide retention
B) Acute anxiety, hyperventilation, and decreased carbon dioxide retention
C) Decreased cardiac output with increased serum lactic acid production
D) Gastric drainage with increased removal of gastric acid

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Respiratory acidosis is caused by an increase in retention of carbon dioxide, regardless of the underlying disease. A decrease in carbon dioxide retention may lead to respiratory alkalosis. An increase in production of lactic acid leads to metabolic acidosis. Removal of an acid (gastric secretions) will lead to a metabolic alkalosis.

The Acid-Base Status of a Patient Is Dependent on Normal