RN ATI Adult Medsurg Proctored Exam 2023 With NGN Related

Review RN ATI Adult Medsurg Proctored Exam 2023 With NGN related questions and content

A nurse is analyzing the ABG results of a client who is in respiratory acidosis. Which of the following mechanisms should the nurse identify as responsible for this acid-base imbalance?

  • A. Retention of carbon dioxide
  • B. Loss of bicarbonate
  • C. Excessive vomiting
  • D. Hyperventilation
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Retention of carbon dioxide. In respiratory acidosis, the lungs are unable to eliminate enough carbon dioxide, leading to an increase in CO2 levels in the blood, causing acidosis. This is due to inadequate ventilation or impaired gas exchange. The other options are incorrect because: B) Loss of bicarbonate is seen in metabolic acidosis, not respiratory acidosis. C) Excessive vomiting leads to metabolic alkalosis, not respiratory acidosis. D) Hyperventilation would actually correct respiratory acidosis by decreasing CO2 levels.