Surgical Technologist Exam Prep

Category - Surgical Technologist

During surgery, a patient’s respiratory rate drops and they begin to have heart arrhythmias. The physician orders a blood gas panel, and the results show pH 7.20, PCO2 62, P02 86, and HCO323. Which of the following conditions is the patient most likely to have?
  1. Metabolic acidosis
  2. Metabolic alkalosis
  3. Respiratory acidosis
  4. Respiratory alkalosis
Explanation
Answer: C-The patient in this situation is most likely suffering from respiratory acidosis. This occurs when the pH level drops lower than normal and the PCO2 is increased. Additionally, the patient may have respiratory or cardiac changes, which tell the nurse that they need to provide greater respiratory support to try and normalize blood gas levels.
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