ATI Medsurg Proctored Final Exam Related

Review ATI Medsurg Proctored Final Exam related questions and content

A nurse is reviewing the arterial blood gas (ABG) results of a client who the provider suspects has metabolic acidosis. Which of the following results should the nurse expect to see?

  • A. pH below 7.35
  • B. pH above 7.45
  • C. HCO3- above 28 mEq/L
  • D. PaCO2 above 45 mm Hg
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: pH below 7.35. In metabolic acidosis, there is a decrease in pH due to an excess of acid or a loss of bicarbonate ions. A pH below 7.35 indicates acidosis. Choices B and C are incorrect because in metabolic acidosis, the pH is below the normal range of 7.35-7.45, and the bicarbonate (HCO3-) level is typically below 24 mEq/L rather than above 28 mEq/L. Choice D is incorrect as an elevated PaCO2 (respiratory acidosis) is not typically seen in metabolic acidosis.