Anticipated ABG Results in COPD Exacerbation

Very Hard Physiological Adaptation Medical Emergencies

A 68-year-old patient is brought to the emergency department after experiencing sudden onset shortness of breath and chest pain. The patient has a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and hypertension. Upon assessment, the nurse notes the patient is in respiratory distress, with a heart rate of 110 bpm, blood pressure of 160/95 mmHg, and an oxygen saturation of 85% on room air. The healthcare provider orders an immediate arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis. Which of the following ABG results would the nurse anticipate if the patient is experiencing an acute exacerbation of COPD?

pH 7.45,PaCO2 32 mmHg, HCO3- 22 mEq/L

pH 7.32, PaCO2 55 mmHg, HCO3- 26 mEq/L

pH 7.50, PaCO2 30 mmHg, HCO3- 24 mEq/L

pH 7.38, PaCO2 45 mmHg, HCO3- 30 mEq/L

Hint

Submitted18.0K

Correct10.2K

% Correct57%