a nurse is reviewing a clients latest arterial blood gas (abg) report. which of the following values should…

a nurse is reviewing a clients latest arterial blood gas (abg) report. which of the following values should the nurse identify as the priority to report to the provider?\nph 7.37\npaco₂ 43 mm hg\nhco₃⁻ 24 meq/l\npao₂ 76 mm hg

a nurse is reviewing a clients latest arterial blood gas (abg) report. which of the following values should the nurse identify as the priority to report to the provider?\nph 7.37\npaco₂ 43 mm hg\nhco₃⁻ 24 meq/l\npao₂ 76 mm hg

Answer

Brief Explanations:

First, identify normal ABG ranges:

  • Normal pH: 7.35-7.45
  • Normal PaCO₂: 35-45 mm Hg
  • Normal HCO₃⁻: 22-26 mEq/L
  • Normal PaO₂: 80-100 mm Hg

Compare each value to the normal range. The PaO₂ of 76 mm Hg is below the normal range, indicating hypoxemia, which is a critical finding requiring immediate provider notification. The other values fall within normal limits.

Answer:

D. PaO₂ 76 mm Hg