A nurse is caring for a client undergoing diagnostic evaluation for suspected pulmonary edema. Which finding on an arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis is consistent with pulmonary edema?

A) Incorrect. The primary role of the lymphatic system in the lungs is not gas exchange but rather fluid removal.

B) Incorrect. While the lymphatic system plays a role in overall fluid balance, it is not primarily responsible for regulating blood pressure.

C) Correct. The lymphatic system helps remove excess interstitial fluid from the lungs, preventing fluid accumulation and contributing to fluid balance.

D) Incorrect. Surfactant production is primarily related to maintaining lung compliance and preventing alveolar collapse but is not a primary function of the lymphatic system.

A) Correct. Pulmonary edema can lead to impaired gas exchange, resulting in respiratory acidosis, characterized by a decreased pH on ABG analysis.

B) Incorrect. Pulmonary edema typically leads to decreased oxygenation, so an elevated PaO2 would not be consistent with this condition.

C) Incorrect. A decreased PaCO2 is more commonly associated with respiratory alkalosis and is not a primary finding in pulmonary edema.

D) Incorrect. Increased bicarbonate (HCO3-) levels are more indicative of metabolic alkalosis and are not typically associated with pulmonary edema.