Acid-base: Respiratory Acidosis

Question 1

Manifestations

Answer 1

1. Headache
2. Dyspnea
3. High CO2
4. Dysrhythmias
5. Drowsiness
6. Change in LOC
7. Hyperreflexia (use of accessory muscles to breathe)

Question 2

Causes or risks of respiratory acidosis

Answer 2

1. COPD
2. pneumonia
3. Asthma
4. Excessive narcotic usage
5. Atelectasis

Question 3

Interventions

Answer 3

1. Treat underlying cause
2. Monitor LOC, RR, VS
3. Position in Semi-Fowler’s
4. Encourage pursed lip breathing to exhale CO2
5. Administer O2 and meds
6. CPAP

Question 4

Interventions for children at risk for respiratory acidosis

Answer 4

1. Deep breathing
2. Positioning for optimal breathing
3. Signs of infection
4. Med admin.
5. Teach on the use of devices like respirators and nebulizers