Test your knowledge with this NCLEX-RN Question of the Day: Interpret ABG results in a diabetic patient with altered mental status. What’s the diagnosis?
The nurse in the emergency department is reviewing the arterial blood gas results of a client with uncontrolled type I diabetes mellitus who arrived with an altered mental status. Based on the client’s laboratory results, which condition does this client most likely have?
A. Metabolic acidosis
B. Respiratory alkalosis
C. Respiratory acidosis
D. Metabolic alkalosis
Scroll down for the correct answer!
The correct answer to today’s NCLEX-RN® Question is…
A. Metabolic acidosis
Rationale: This client most likely has metabolic acidosis as evidenced by their decreased pH and bicarbonate levels. This is also consistent with the client’s history of uncontrolled type 1 diabetes mellitus.
Major Takeaway
- Normal arterial blood gas (ABG) values for healthy adults are a pH ranging from 7.35 to 7.45
- Bicarbonate (HCO3)- ranging from 21 to 28 mEq/L
- Carbon dioxide (PaCO2) ranging from 35 to 45 mm Hg
- PaO2 ranging from 80 to 100 mm Hg, and SaO2 above 95%.
Incorrect Answer Explanations
B. Respiratory alkalosis
Rationale: It is not most likely that this client has respiratory alkalosis. The client’s pH is not alkalotic.
C. Respiratory acidosis
Rationale: It is not most likely that this client has respiratory acidosis. Although the client’s pH is acidotic, their CO2, PaO2, and SaO2 are normal.
D. Metabolic alkalosis
Rationale: It is not most likely that this client has metabolic alkalosis. The client’s pH is not alkalotic.
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