Exhibits The nurse is drawing an arterial blood gas to evaluate the client post treatment. Complete the following sentence by choosing from the lists of options. A pH level of dropdown and HCO3- level of dropdownindicate a resolution of ketoacidosis.

Choice A rationale: A pH level of 7.35 to 7.45 and HCO3- level of 22 to 26 mEq/L indicate a resolution of ketoacidosis. The normal pH range for the body is 7.35 to 7.45, and a return to this range indicates that the body’s acid-base balance has been restored. The bicarbonate (HCO3-) level is a measure of the metabolic component of the body’s acid-base balance, and the normal range is 22 to 26 mEq/L. A return to this range indicates that the metabolic acidosis caused by the ketoacidosis has been resolved. Choice B rationale: A pH level of 7.25 to 7.35 and HCO3- level of 18 to 22 mEq/L would indicate that the client is still in a state of mild acidosis, as the pH is below the normal range and the bicarbonate level is also slightly low, indicating a metabolic acidosis. Choice C rationale: A pH level of 7.15 to 7.25 and HCO3- level of 14 to 18 mEq/L would indicate a moderate acidosis. Both the pH and bicarbonate levels are significantly below their normal ranges, indicating a significant disruption in the body’s acid-base balance. Choice D rationale: A pH level of 7.05 to 7.15 and HCO3- level of 10 to 14 mEq/L would indicate severe acidosis, which would be life-threatening if not corrected. Both the pH and bicarbonate levels are far below their normal ranges, indicating a severe disruption in the body’s acid-base balance. In conclusion, choice A is correct because it represents values within the normal ranges for both pH and bicarbonate, indicating a resolution of ketoacidosis.