27.
A client hospitalized with a pneumothorax has the following arterial
blood gas (ABG) analysis: pH, 7.19; partial pressure of arterial carbon dioxide
(PaCO
2), 63 mmHg; and
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, 22
mEq/L. A chest tube was inserted and oxygen administered at 4 L/min by nasal
cannula. One hour after the initiation of treatment, ABG analysis reveals: pH,
7.28; PaCO
2, 52 mmHg; and
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mEq/L. This change in ABG analysis indicates
- A. respiratory alkalosis.
- B. impending respiratory arrest.
- C. the need for intubation.
- D. improved respiratory status.