NCLEX Trainer Test 1 Related

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The nurse is caring for a client with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

  • A. Which arterial blood gas result is expected in a client with chronic COPD?
  • B. pH 7.40, PaCO2 40 mmHg, PaO2 90 mmHg.
  • C. pH 7.32, PaCO2 50 mmHg, PaO2 70 mmHg.
  • D. pH 7.45, PaCO2 30 mmHg, PaO2 95 mmHg.
  • E. pH 7.30, PaCO2 35 mmHg, PaO2 85 mmHg.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Chronic COPD causes CO2 retention, leading to a compensated respiratory acidosis with low pH (7.32), high PaCO2 (50 mmHg), and low PaO2 (70 mmHg) due to impaired gas exchange. Normal or acute values are incorrect.