Fluid and Electrolytes NCLEX RN Questions Related

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The nurse reviews a client's arterial blood gas results. Based on the results, the nurse plans to obtain a physician's order to Laboratory: pH 7.33 [7.35-7.45], PaCO2 39 mm Hg [35-45 mm Hg], HCO3 24 mEq/L [22-28 mEq/L], PaO2 72 mm Hg [80-100 mm Hg]

  • A. administer supplemental oxygen
  • B. administer a benzodiazepine
  • C. administer sodium bicarbonate intravenously
  • D. reassess the ABG in two hours
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The ABG shows normal pH and PaCO2 but low PaO2 (72 mm Hg), indicating hypoxemia. Supplemental oxygen (A) is needed. Benzodiazepines (B) are irrelevant, sodium bicarbonate (C) is for acidosis, and reassessing (D) delays treatment.