66. Which finding should indicate to a nurse that a client has recovered from respiratory acidosis?
. Increasing respiratory rate.
. Increasing serum creatinine.
. Decreasing respiratory rate.
. Increasing serum bicarbonate.
Test-Taking Tip
Recall that a compensatory response to a metabolic problem is a change in respiratory rate. The rate should slow as CO2 returns to normal.
Content Area: Adult Health, Fluid and Electrolyte Imbalances; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Analysis; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Physiological Adaptation/Pathophysiology
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Answer 1 is correct because the respiratory rate would increase as respiratory function improved. Respiratory acidosis occurs from slow and inadequate ventilation. Answer 2 is incorrect because an increase in creatinine and poor renal function would lead to metabolic acidosis. Answer 3 is incorrect because a slow respiratory rate causes CO2 to be retained, which will lead to respiratory acidosis. Answer 4 is incorrect because bicarbonate increases with respiratory acidosis.