How it Works
Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (Free-Trial)

A nurse reviews the following ABG result:

  • pH 7.37
  • PaO2 84
  • PaCO2 54
  • Bicarbonate: 31
  • Saturation: 95%

What is the interpretation of this ABG?

A.

Partially compensated Metabolic Alkalosis

B.

Fully compensated Metabolic Acidosis

C.

Fully compensated Respiratory Acidosis

D.

Partially compensated Respiratory Alkalosis

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. Partially compensated Metabolic Alkalosis: This is incorrect because the pH is within normal limits (7.35-7.45), and the elevated PaCO2 and bicarbonate suggest a respiratory issue rather than a metabolic one.

B. Fully compensated Metabolic Acidosis: This is incorrect because the primary disturbance is respiratory, not metabolic. A compensated metabolic acidosis would typically show a low PaCO2 as compensation.

C. Fully compensated Respiratory Acidosis: Correct. The pH is within the normal range, indicating full compensation. The elevated PaCO2 and bicarbonate reflect a chronic respiratory acidosis that has been compensated by the kidneys.

D. Partially compensated Respiratory Alkalosis: This is incorrect because in respiratory alkalosis, the PaCO2 would be low, not high.


Get 100+ Naxlex Exit Exams for $79 Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (14 Day Free-Trial)

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Free Nursing Study Resources

Related Questions

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. "To the best of your knowledge, are your immunizations up to date?" Immunization status is important but is not directly related to the symptoms of jaundice and increased abdominal girth.

B. "Have you ever worked in an occupation where you might have been exposed to toxins?" While toxin exposure could contribute to liver disease, it is less likely the immediate cause compared to alcohol consumption.

C. "How many alcoholic drinks do you typically consume in a week?" Alcohol consumption is a major risk factor for liver disease, which can lead to jaundice and ascites (increased abdominal girth).

D. "Has anyone in your family ever experienced symptoms similar to yours?" Family history is less relevant for acute symptoms of jaundice and abdominal girth, which are more likely related to lifestyle factors like alcohol use.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Respiratory acidosis: Respiratory acidosis would present with a low pH (below 7.35) and a high PaCO2 (above 45 mmHg).

B. Respiratory alkalosis: This ABG shows a high pH (7.51), low PaCO2 (32 mmHg), and normal HCO3- (26 mEq/L), indicating respiratory alkalosis, typically due to hyperventilation.

C. Metabolic acidosis: Metabolic acidosis would present with a low pH and low HCO3-, but in this case, the HCO3- is normal.

D. Metabolic alkalosis: Metabolic alkalosis would show a high pH and high HCO3-, but the HCO3- in this ABG is normal.

Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.

Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today

Register