NCLEX RN Physiological Integrity Related

Review NCLEX RN Physiological Integrity related questions and content

A client at risk for respiratory failure is receiving oxygen via nasal cannula at 6 L per minute. Arterial blood gas (ABG) results indicate pH 7.29, PcO2 49 mm Hg, Po2 58 mm Hg, and HCO3 18 mEq/L. What intervention should the nurse anticipate that the primary health care provider will prescribe for respiratory support for this client?

  • A. Intubating for mechanical ventilation
  • B. Keeping the oxygen at 6 L per minute via nasal cannula
  • C. Lowering the oxygen to 4 L per minute via nasal cannula
  • D. Adding a partial rebreather mask to the current prescription
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: If respiratory failure occurs and supplemental oxygen cannot maintain acceptable PaO2 and PaCO2 levels, endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation are necessary. The client is exhibiting respiratory acidosis, metabolic acidosis, and hypoxemia. Lowering or keeping the oxygen at the same liter flow will not improve the client's condition. A partial rebreather mask will raise CO2 levels even further.