ATI Fluid Electrolyte and Acid-Base Regulation Related

Review ATI Fluid Electrolyte and Acid-Base Regulation related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a client who has the following arterial blood values: pH 7.12, PaO2 56 mm Hg, PaCO2 65 mm Hg, and HCO3 22 mEq/L. Which clinical situation should the nurse correlate with these values?

  • A. . Diabetic ketoacidosis in a person with emphysema
  • B. Bronchial obstruction related to aspiration of a hot dog
  • C. Anxiety-induced hyperventilation in an adolescen
  • D. Diarrhea for 36 hours in an older, frail woman
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Diabetic ketoacidosis in a person with emphysema. The arterial blood values show a low pH (acidosis), high PaCO2 (respiratory acidosis), and normal HCO3 (compensatory metabolic alkalosis). This pattern is consistent with a mixed acid-base disorder seen in diabetic ketoacidosis where metabolic acidosis from ketone production is partially compensated by respiratory acidosis from decreased alveolar ventilation due to emphysema. The other choices do not align with the given blood values. Choice B is incorrect as it would typically show respiratory alkalosis. Choice C would show respiratory alkalosis with low PaCO2. Choice D would result in metabolic acidosis with low HCO3.