Advanced Patient Assessment Practice Exam

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Study for the Advanced Patient Assessment Exam. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each enriched with hints and detailed explanations. Equip yourself for success with this comprehensive prep!

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Given the ABG results: pH: 7.28; PaCO2: 67 mm Hg; PaO2: 49 mm Hg; SaO2: 76%, which of the following is true regarding the PaO2?

It shows mild hypoxemia
It is adequate
It shows severe hypoxemia
It shows moderate hypoxemia

The correct answer is: It shows moderate hypoxemia

The PaO2 value of 49 mm Hg indicates a significant impairment in oxygenation. In arterial blood gas analysis, normal PaO2 levels typically range from 75 to 100 mm Hg. Values under 60 mm Hg are generally classified as severe hypoxemia, while levels between 60-80 mm Hg indicate moderate hypoxemia. Given that the PaO2 here is only 49 mm Hg, this clearly falls into the category of severe hypoxemia rather than moderate. This value reflects a critical lack of oxygen in the blood, which would manifest as increased respiratory effort, cyanosis, and other signs of oxygen deprivation. Therefore, the classification of the PaO2 in the context of the other choices is aligned with an understanding of hypoxemia levels, demonstrating that the interpretation of PaO2 is crucial in patient assessment and management.