Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 66%
Full-length
The nurse is reviewing the client's arterial blood gas results. Which finding would indicate that the client is experiencing respiratory acidosis?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
In respiratory acidosis, the pH is decreased and an opposite effect is seen in the PCO2 (pH decreased, PCO2 elevated). Option 1 indicates respiratory alkalosis; option 3 indicates possible metabolic acidosis; option 4 indicates possible metabolic alkalosis.