A client is demonstrating signs of hypoxia.What laboratory value will help the nurse determine the client's degree of effective gas exchange?
A)Blood glucose
B)Serum potassium
C)Serum sodium
D)Arterial blood gas

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Arterial blood gas (ABG) measures various parameters related to the oxygenation and pH of the blood. ABG provides information on the partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood (PaO2), which is an indicator of effective gas exchange in the lungs. Therefore, ABG is the best choice to determine the client's degree of effective gas exchange in case of hypoxia. Blood glucose, serum potassium, and serum sodium levels are unrelated to gas exchange and would not be helpful in this situation.

A Client Is Demonstrating Signs of Hypoxia