An 8-year-old is admitted to the pediatric unit with pneumonia. On ass

An 8-year-old is admitted to the pediatric unit with pneumonia. On assessment the nurse notes that the child is warm and flushed, is lethargic, has difficulty breathing, and has moist rales. The nurse determines that the child is suffering from:

1. Metabolic acidosis
2. Respiratory acidosis
3. Respiratory alkalosis
4. Metabolic alkalosis

ANSWER

ANS: 2
These assessment findings (i.e., warm and flushed skin, lethargy, and medical diagnosis of pneumonia) are indicative of respiratory acidosis. Lethargy and flushed skin may be seen with metabolic acidosis, but this child has a respiratory problem with difficulty breathing, which is consistent with respiratory acidosis.