Question

The client is admitted with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The client's laboratory values reveal a \(\mathrm{CO}_2\) level of \(49 \mathrm{mEq} / \mathrm{L}\). The \(\mathrm{HCO}_3\) level is \(26 \mathrm{mEq} / \mathrm{L}\), and the \(\mathrm{pH}\) is \(7.32\). The nurse is aware that these laboratory values reveal: A. Metabolic acidosis B. Metabolic alkalosis C. Respiratory alkalosis D. Respiratory acidosis

Short answer

A. Metabolic acidosis B. Metabolic alkalosis C. Respiratory alkalosis D. Respiratory acidosis Answer: D. Respiratory acidosis

Step-by-step solution

Determine the normal ranges for CO2, HCO3, and pH

The normal ranges for the given values are as follows: \(\mathrm{pH}\): \(7.35 - 7.45\) (slightly alkaline) \(\mathrm{CO}_2\): \(35 - 45 \mathrm{mEq} / \mathrm{L}\) \(\mathrm{HCO}_3\): \(22 - 26 \mathrm{mEq} / \mathrm{L}\)

Analyze the given laboratory values

The laboratory values provided are as follows: \(\mathrm{CO}_2\): \(49 \mathrm{mEq} / \mathrm{L}\) (increased, above normal range) \(\mathrm{HCO}_3\): \(26 \mathrm{mEq} / \mathrm{L}\) (normal) \(\mathrm{pH}\): \(7.32\) (decreased, below normal range)

Identify the acid-base imbalance

Based on the given laboratory values, we can conclude that: 1. The \(\mathrm{pH}\) is below the normal range, indicating acidosis. 2. The \(\mathrm{CO}_2\) is above the normal range, indicating that the acidosis is related to an increased \(\mathrm{CO}_2\) (related to the respiratory system). 3. The \(\mathrm{HCO}_3\) is within the normal range and does not contribute to the acid-base imbalance in this case. The combination of low pH and high \(\mathrm{CO}_2\) indicates respiratory acidosis. Therefore, the correct answer is: D. Respiratory acidosis