ATI Maternal Newborn Proctored Exam Related

Review ATI Maternal Newborn Proctored Exam related questions and content

When reviewing the arterial blood gas values for a client, a nurse notes a pH of 7.32, PaCO2 of 48 mm Hg, and HCO3 of 23 mEq/L. What does this indicate about the acid-base balance?

  • A. Respiratory acidosis
  • B. Respiratory alkalosis
  • C. Metabolic acidosis
  • D. Metabolic alkalosis
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The given values suggest respiratory acidosis. In respiratory acidosis, the pH is low (<7.35), PaCO2 is high (>45 mm Hg), and the HCO3 is normal or slightly elevated. In this scenario, the low pH (7.32) and high PaCO2 (48 mm Hg) indicate respiratory acidosis, where there is an excess of carbon dioxide in the blood, leading to acidification of the body fluids.