Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 68%
Simulated
A nurse is reviewing the ABG values of a client. The client has a pH of 7.2, PaCO2 of 60 mm Hg, and HCO3 of 25 mEq/L. The nurse should identify that the client has which of the following acid-base imbalances?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
The correct answer is C: Respiratory acidosis. The pH is low (acidosis) at 7.2, indicating an acid-base imbalance. The PaCO2 is elevated at 60 mm Hg, suggesting respiratory involvement as high PaCO2 leads to acidosis. The HCO3 is normal at 25 mEq/L, ruling out metabolic acidosis. Respiratory acidosis occurs when there is inadequate excretion of CO2, leading to its accumulation in the blood, causing a decrease in pH. Choices A, B, and D can be eliminated because they do not match the ABG values provided in the question.