The nurse assesses that the client admitted in respiratory acidosis has compensated when the arterial blood gas (ABG) readings are
A) carbon dioxide level of 50 mm Hg and bicarbonate level of 30 mEq/L.
B) carbon dioxide level of 50 mm Hg and bicarbonate level of 20 mEq/L.
C) carbon dioxide level of 30 mm Hg and bicarbonate level of 30 mEq/L.
D) carbon dioxide level of 30 mm Hg and bicarbonate level of 24 mEq/L.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If compensation is present, carbon dioxide and bicarbonate are abnormal (or nearly so) in opposite directions (e.g., one is acidotic and the other alkalotic).

The Nurse Assesses That the Client Admitted in Respiratory Acidosis