The nurse is caring for a client who is on a mechanical ventilator. Blood gas results indicate a pH of 50 and a PaCO2 of 30mmHg(30mmHg). The nurse has determined that the client is experiencing respiratory alkalosis. Which laboratory value would most likely be noted in this condition?

Sodiumlevelof145mEq/L(145mmol/L) Potassium level of 3.0 mEq/L (3.0 mmol/L)Magnesium level of 1.3 mEq/L (0.65 mmol/L)Phosphorus level of 3.0 mg/dL (0.97 mmol/L)

Explanation.

Respiratory alkalosis is defined as a deficit of carbonic acid or a decrease in hydrogen ion concentration that results from the accumulation of base or from a loss of acid without a comparable loss of base in the body fluids. This occurs in conditions that cause overstimulation of the respiratory system. Clinical manifestations of respiratory alkalosis include lethargy, lightheadedness, confusion, tachycardia, dysrhythmias related to hypokalemia, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, and numbness and tingling of the extremities. All three incorrect options identify normal laboratory values. The correct option identifies the presence of hypokalemia.