A nurse assesses a client who is admitted with an acid-base imbalance. The client's arterial blood gas values are pH 7.32. PaO2 85 mm Hg, PaCO2 34 mm Hg. and HCO3⁻16 mEq/L. What action should the nurse take next?

Rationale: A. Deep breathing exercises would help correct respiratory acidosis by eliminating CO₂, but this client has metabolic acidosis. B. The ABG shows metabolic acidosis (low pH 7.32, low HCO₃⁻ 16, low PaCO₂ as partial compensation). The priority treatment may include IV sodium bicarbonate in severe cases to buffer excess acid. C. Mechanical ventilation is indicated for respiratory failure, not metabolic acidosis. D. Oxygen therapy is unnecessary since the PaO₂ is normal (85 mm Hg).