Respiratory System NCLEX Questions Related

Review Respiratory System NCLEX Questions related questions and content

A client who is found unresponsive has the following arterial blood gases: pH 7.12,
PCO2 90, and HCO3 26. The nurse interprets the results as indicating which
condition?

  • A. Metabolic acidosis with partial compensation
  • B. Respiratory acidosis with partial compensation
  • C. Metabolic acidosis without compensation
  • D. Respiratory acidosis without compensation
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, respiratory acidosis without compensation. The low pH and high PCO2 levels indicate respiratory acidosis. HCO3 is within normal range, suggesting no metabolic compensation. This is not metabolic acidosis as the HCO3 level is not elevated. Not partial compensation as the HCO3 level is not compensating for the respiratory acidosis.