A Patient Who Is Lethargic and Exhibits Deep,rapid Respirations Has

Multiple Choice

A patient who is lethargic and exhibits deep,rapid respirations has the following arterial blood gas (ABG) results: pH 7.32,PaO₂ 88 mm Hg,PaCO₂ 37 mm Hg,and HCO₃ 16 mEq/L. How should the nurse interpret these results?

A) Metabolic acidosis
B) Metabolic alkalosis
C) Respiratory acidosis
D) Respiratory alkalosis