Question

a nurse is caring for a client whose abg results are ph 7.30, paco₂ 32 mm hg, and hco₃⁻ 19 meq/l. the nurse should identify that the client has which of the following acid - base imbalances?
respiratory acidosis
respiratory alkalosis
metabolic acidosis
metabolic alkalosis

Explanation:

• pH value: Normal pH range is 7.35 - 7.45. A pH of 7.30 indicates acidosis (pH < 7.35).
• \(PaCO_2\) (partial pressure of carbon dioxide): Normal \(PaCO_2\) is 35 - 45 mmHg. Here \(PaCO_2 = 32\) mmHg (lower than normal). In respiratory acid - base imbalances, \(PaCO_2\) is the primary indicator. But a low \(PaCO_2\) suggests a respiratory compensation (not the primary cause of acidosis here).
• \(HCO_3^-\) (bicarbonate): Normal \(HCO_3^-\) is 22 - 26 mEq/L. Here \(HCO_3^-=19\) mEq/L (lower than normal). In metabolic acidosis, \(HCO_3^-\) is decreased as the primary event.

Answer:

Metabolic acidosis