Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

How would you interpret blood gas results of pH 7.32, paO2 88, PCO2 48?

1. Respiratory acidosis

2. Respiratory alkalosis

3. Metabolic acidosis

4. Metabolic alkalosis

The correct answer is: Respiratory acidosis

The interpretation of blood gas results showing a pH of 7.32, paO2 of 88, and PCO2 of 48 indicates that the patient is experiencing respiratory acidosis. In blood gas analysis, the normal pH range is typically between 7.35 and 7.45. A pH value of 7.32 signifies acidosis, which means there is an excess of hydrogen ions in the blood, leading to a lower pH. The PCO2 value of 48 is above the normal range (35-45 mmHg), indicating that there is a retention of carbon dioxide, which contributes to the acidosis. Elevated PCO2 results from inadequate ventilation or respiratory failure, which prevents the normal excretion of CO2, consequently leading to an increase in acidity. The paO2 level of 88, while not critical, suggests that the oxygenation status is somewhat compromised but does not directly influence the acid-base balance interpretation. In summary, the combination of a low pH and elevated PCO2 strongly points to respiratory acidosis due to the accumulation of carbon dioxide. This is the key reason why this interpretation is the correct one.