Fluid and Electrolytes NCLEX RN Questions Related

Review Fluid and Electrolytes NCLEX RN Questions related questions and content

What arterial blood gas (ABG) values suggest this? pH 7.30 [pH 7.35-7.45], CO2 38 [PCO2 35-45 mm Hg], HCO3 18 mEq/L [HCO3 22-28 mEq/L]; pH 7.48 [pH 7.35-7.45], CO2 31 [PCO2 35-45 mm Hg], HCO3 24 [HCO3 22-28 mEq/L]; pH 7.42 [pH 7.35-7.45], CO2 36 [PCO2 35-45 mm Hg], HCO3 24 [HCO3 22-28 mEq/L]; pH 7.30 [pH 7.35-7.45], CO2 52 [PCO2 35-45 mm Hg], HCO3 29 [HCO3 22-28 mEq/L]

  • A. pH 7.30, CO2 38, HCO3 18 mEq/L
  • B. pH 7.48, CO2 31, HCO3 24
  • C. pH 7.42, CO2 36, HCO3 24
  • D. pH 7.30, CO2 52, HCO3 29
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Respiratory acidosis is characterized by low pH and high PaCO2. Option D (pH 7.30, PaCO2 52, HCO3 29) shows respiratory acidosis with partial compensation.