Which blood gas result will the nurse expect to observe in a patient with respiratory alkalosis?

A. While asking appropriate questions demonstrates that the partner is engaged and seeking understanding, it alone does not indicate that they are ready to perform the procedure independently.

B. Being able to verbalize all steps in the procedure shows that the partner has knowledge and understanding of the process. However, verbalizing alone does not confirm that they can perform the procedure accurately and safely. Practical skills and hands-on competence are crucial for readiness.
C. Attending a class provides important theoretical knowledge and information about tracheostomy care. However, attending a class by itself does not guarantee that the partner has developed the necessary skills to perform suctioning independently.
D. The ability to perform the procedure independently indicates that the partner has acquired the necessary skills and confidence to carry out suctioning safely and effectively. It shows practical proficiency, which is essential for readiness for discharge. The partner’s ability to perform suctioning without assistance demonstrates that they can handle the procedure in real-life situations.

A. pH: Elevated (above 7.45), indicating alkalosis. PaCO₂: Decreased (below 35 mm Hg), reflecting hyperventilation and CO₂ loss. HCO₃⁻: Usually normal (around 24 mEq/L) or slightly decreased, as metabolic compensation might not be immediate. The results here show an elevated pH, decreased PaCO₂, and normal HCO₃⁻, which are consistent with respiratory alkalosis.
B. pH: Decreased (acidic), indicating acidosis. PaCO₂: Slightly elevated (near normal), not indicative of respiratory alkalosis. HCO₃⁻: Normal (around 26 mEq/L), suggesting no significant metabolic component or compensation. This profile does not match respiratory alkalosis; it is more consistent with a mixed or different type of acid-base imbalance.
C. pH: Decreased (acidic), indicating acidosis. PaCO₂: Elevated (above 45 mm Hg), indicating CO₂ retention, which is characteristic of respiratory acidosis, not alkalosis. HCO₃⁻: Normal (around 23 mEq/L), showing no significant metabolic compensation or disturbance. This profile indicates respiratory acidosis rather than respiratory alkalosis.
D. pH: Elevated (alkaline), which is consistent with alkalosis. PaCO₂: Normal (around 40 mm Hg), indicating that CO₂ levels are not the primary cause of the alkalosis. HCO₃⁻: Elevated (above 28 mEq/L), suggesting a metabolic alkalosis or compensation for a respiratory acidosis, but not respiratory alkalosis alone.