COMPLETE BASIC NURSING SKILLS AND
PRACTICE QUESTIONS
◉ Normal PaCO2 Level. Answer: 35-45 mmHg
◉ Normal Bicarbonate (HCO3). Answer: 22-26 mEq/L
◉ ROME Method for ABGs. Answer: Respiratory Opposite, Metabolic
Equal
◉ Respiratory Acidosis Cause. Answer: Hypoventilation causing CO2
retention
◉ Respiratory Acidosis Symptoms. Answer: Confusion, headache,
drowsiness, slow breathing
◉ Respiratory Acidosis Nursing Interventions. Answer: Improve
ventilation, administer oxygen, monitor ABGs
◉ Respiratory Alkalosis Cause. Answer: Hyperventilation causing
excessive CO2 loss
, ◉ Respiratory Alkalosis Symptoms. Answer: Dizziness,
lightheadedness, tingling fingers, anxiety
◉ Respiratory Alkalosis Nursing Interventions. Answer: Slow
breathing, calm patient, treat anxiety
◉ Metabolic Acidosis Cause. Answer: Kidney failure, DKA, diarrhea
◉ Metabolic Acidosis Symptoms. Answer: Kussmaul respirations,
confusion, fatigue
◉ Metabolic Acidosis Nursing Interventions. Answer: Treat
underlying cause, administer fluids
◉ Metabolic Alkalosis Cause. Answer: Vomiting or excessive NG
suction
◉ Metabolic Alkalosis Symptoms. Answer: Muscle cramps,
weakness, confusion
◉ Metabolic Alkalosis Nursing Interventions. Answer: Replace fluids
and electrolytes