The nurse assesses for which physiologic response as compensation for metabolic acidosis?
A. Increasing the respiratory rate B. Decreasing the respiratory rate C. Increasing urine output
D. Decreasing urine output - CORRECT ANSWER Increasing the respiratory rate
Rationale: The decrease in arterial pH stimulates respirations. The body's attempt to compensate occurs
rapidly and may reduce the PaCO2 levels by as much as 10 to 15 mm Hg.
The nurse recognizes which parameter as the respiratory component of the ABG measurement?
A. pH
B. HCO3 -
C. PaCO2
D. H+ - CORRECT ANSWER C. PaCO2
Rationale: The respiratory components of the ABG measurement are the PaO2 and the PaCO2.
When caring for a patient diagnosed with respiratory acidosis, the nurse includes which nursing
interventions? (Select all that apply.)
A. Monitor the patient's ABGs.
B. Have the patient breathe into a paper bag.
C. Monitor sedation medication usage.
D. Encourage the patient to use slow breathing.
E. Administer supplemental oxygen.