Reference Range: 1329545.
A client receiving mechanical ventilation has a pH of 7.26, PaCO2 of 68 mm Hg, and a PaO2 of 92 mm Hg. Which intervention should the nurse implement?

Choice A rationale:

Decreasing expiratory flow time is not the appropriate intervention in this case. The client's pH and PaCO2 levels suggest respiratory acidosis, which indicates inadequate ventilation. Increasing expiratory flow time might exacerbate the acidosis by reducing ventilation.

Choice C rationale:

Increasing the rate of ventilation (respiratory rate) is a potential intervention to improve the client's acid-base balance. However, it should be done cautiously and under medical supervision to avoid respiratory alkalosis. It is not the first-line intervention in this scenario.

Choice D rationale:

Increasing the ventilator tidal volume may help improve ventilation, but it should also be done under medical guidance to prevent barotrauma. It is not the initial intervention to address the client's respiratory acidosis.

Choice A rationale:

History of vomiting at home for 3 days prior to surgery. Rationale: This information is relevant to the client's surgical history and may impact their current condition. It is essential to inform the receiving nurse about this history to ensure appropriate postoperative care.

Choice B rationale:

Soft abdomen, absent bowel sounds, no bleeding on dressing. Rationale: While this information is important for assessing the client's postoperative status, it is less urgent than the history of vomiting. The abdominal assessment suggests normal findings after surgery.

Choice C rationale:

Declining to take ice chips for complaints of dry mouth. Rationale: While this information indicates the client's complaint of dry mouth, it is not as critical as the history of vomiting or the assessment of surgical outcomes.

Choice D rationale:

Peripheral pulses present with full range of motion of both legs. Rationale: This information is important but primarily related to the client's vascular and neurological status. It may not be as immediately relevant as the history of vomiting in the context of a recent surgery.