ABG Interpretation
What is the normal range for blood pH, PaCO₂, and HCO₃⁻?
pH: 7.35–7.45
PaCO₂: 35-45 (45-35) mmHg
HCO₃⁻: 22–26 mEq/L
What lung sound is commonly heard in pneumonia patients?
Crackles
What are the hallmark signs of COPD?
Chronic cough, sputum production, weight loss, barrel chest, clubbing of the fingers
What is the most important way to prevent infection in all settings?
Handwashing
What are the key symptoms of asthma?
Wheezing, tachypnea, chest tightness, cough, diaphoresis
A patient has pH = 7.30, PaCO₂ = 50 mmHg, and HCO₃⁻ = 24. What’s the interpretation?
Uncompensated Respiratory Acidosis
Name 2 priority nursing interventions for a patient with pneumonia
Elevate HOB >30°
Administer O₂ and antibiotics as ordered
Why is "barrel chest" a sign of in COPD?
Chronic air trapping
What type of PPE is required for droplet precautions?
Surgical mask
What is the short-acting beta agonist used in an asthma attack?
Albuterol
You’re caring for a patient with Kussmaul respirations, confusion, low BP, and warm flushed skin. Their ABG shows low pH and low bicarbonate. What is the diagnosis?
Metabolic Acidosis
What diagnostic tests confirm pneumonia?
Chest X-ray, sputum specimen, CBC
Why is oxygen administered cautiously in COPD patients?
They rely on hypoxic drive; too much O₂ can decrease respiratory effort.
What kind of precautions do you use for TB and Varicella?
Airborne: Negative pressure room + N95 respirator
What teaching is critical after using an inhaled corticosteroid?
Rinse the mouth to prevent oral thrush (yeast infection)
A patient has pH = 7.48, PaCO₂ = 30 mmHg, and HCO₃⁻ = 24. What is the interpretation and likely cause?
Respiratory Alkalosis
note: likely due to hyperventilation (anxiety or fever)
What type of pneumonia occurs from food or fluid entering the lungs and most often affects the right lower lobe?
Aspiration Pneumonia
What complication results from prolonged COPD and affects the right side of the heart?
Cor Pulmonale
Name 3 groups with increased susceptibility to infection
Very young/old, immunocompromised, and chronic condition patients
A patient with asthma is diaphoretic, tachycardic, and using accessory muscles. What is your next action?
Administer a bronchodilator and assess oxygen saturation
pH is normal, but PaCO₂ is high and HCO₃⁻ is elevated. What does this mean?
Fully Compensated Respiratory Acidosis
You notice decreased breath sounds, fever, cough, tachypnea, and confusion in an elderly client. What is your priority?
Assess respiratory status and administer oxygen. Notify the provider.
What medications are used to manage COPD?
Bronchodilators, corticosteroids, inhaled anticholinergics, xanthines
Your patient has MRSA. What are 2 essential contact precautions?
Gloves and gown
What is the long-term goal of asthma treatment?
Control inflammation and prevent exacerbations