A client who is experiencing respiratory distress is admitted with respiratory acidosis.

Which pathophysiological process supports the client's respiratory acidosis?

Choice A rationale:

PaCO2 55 mm Hg on a blood gas indicates ineffective treatment. Normal PaCO2 levels range from 35-45 mm Hg.

Elevated PaCO2 (hypercapnia) suggests that the lungs are not effectively removing carbon dioxide from the body. This can be due to various factors, including:

Incomplete resolution of pneumonia Airway obstruction

Impaired respiratory muscle function

Choice B rationale:

Rhonchi in the right lung indicates ineffective treatment.

Rhonchi are coarse, rattling sounds heard in the lungs during auscultation.

They are often associated with mucus accumulation in the airways, which can occur in pneumonia.

The presence of rhonchi suggests that inflammation and mucus production persist, despite antibiotic and respiratory therapy.

Choice C rationale:

Oxygen saturation greater than 94% indicates effective treatment. Normal oxygen saturation levels are typically 95% or higher.

A saturation of 94% or above suggests that the lungs are able to effectively oxygenate the blood. This is a positive sign that the pneumonia is responding to treatment.

Choice D rationale:

Client ambulates without shortness of breath indicates effective treatment. Shortness of breath (dyspnea) is a common symptom of pneumonia.

It occurs when the lungs are unable to provide enough oxygen to the body, leading to a feeling of breathlessness.

The ability to ambulate without shortness of breath suggests that the pneumonia has improved and that the lungs are functioning more effectively.

Choice A rationale:

Liquefying secretions is the most crucial action to address the client's immediate respiratory concerns. Thickened mucus obstructs airflow, leading to shortness of breath, productive cough, and difficulty breathing upon exertion. Increasing fluid intake thins mucus, making it easier to expel and improving ventilation. This directly addresses the client's current symptoms and promotes airway clearance.

Hydration and Mucociliary Clearance: Adequate hydration is indispensable for optimal mucociliary clearance, the natural mechanism that removes mucus from the airways. Fluids moisten the respiratory tract, allowing cilia (tiny hair-like structures) to effectively move mucus upwards, where it can be coughed out or swallowed.

Thinning Mucus: Water acts as a natural expectorant, thinning mucus and reducing its viscosity. This makes it easier for the client to cough up the mucus, clearing the airways and reducing the sensation of breathlessness.

Decreasing Mucus Production: Dehydration can trigger the body to produce more mucus as a protective response. By staying hydrated, the client can help prevent excessive mucus production, further easing symptoms.

Supporting Overall Respiratory Health: Proper hydration maintains the health of the respiratory system's tissues and cells, promoting efficient gas exchange and reducing inflammation.

Preventing Dehydration-Related Complications: Dehydration can exacerbate respiratory problems and lead to other complications, such as fatigue, headaches, and impaired immune function. Maintaining adequate fluid intake helps prevent these issues.

Key points to emphasize to the client:

Drink fluids throughout the day, even if not feeling thirsty.

Water is the best choice, but clear broths, juices, and herbal teas can also contribute to fluid intake. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can be dehydrating.

Monitor urine output to ensure adequate hydration (urine should be pale yellow or clear).

Increase fluid intake during periods of increased mucus production, such as during respiratory infections or exercise.