Question

Mr. Appel has a severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). He is admitted to the hospital with a respiratory infection and increased dyspnea; yellow, purulent sputum; anxiety; and diaphoresis. He states he feels weak and tired. He routinely takes a diuretic (furosemide) and his pulmonary medications. The following laboratory values are obtained:

Arterial blood gases:

pH 7.25                                         Serum sodium (Na+) 140 mEq/L

PaO2 60 mmHg                             Serum potassium (K+) 2.0 mEq/L

PaCO2 78 mmHg                           Serum chloride (Cl–) 105 mEq/L

HCO3– 34 mEq/l

a. What type of electrolyte imbalance does Mr. Appel have?

b. Interpret his ABGs.

Answer 1

What type of electrolyte imbalance does Mr. Appel have?

Mr. Appel is suffering from hypokalemia (Normal potassium levels are 3.5-5.0 milliEquivalents per liter (mEq/L) while other electrolytes are in the normal range.

Interpret his ABGs.

PH 7.25 (Low)                                       

PaO2 60 mmHg (Low)                    

PaCO2 78 mmHg (High)                      

HCO3– 34 mEq/l (High)

Normal values:

• PH     =       7.35 – 7.45
• PCO2 =       35 – 45    mmhg
• PO2   =        80 – 100 mmhg
• HCO3 =        22 – 28    meq/L

ABG values shows the patient is suffering from respiratory acidosis