A nurse assesses a client who is admitted with an acid base…
A nurse assesses a client who is admitted with an acid base imbalance. The client’s arterial blood gas values were: arterial blood gas (ABG) Lab Test – ABG Lab Value Reference Range pH 7.32 7.35 – 7.45 PaCO2 34 mmHg 35 – 45 mmHg HCO3- 16 mEq/L 22 – 28 mEq/L PaO2 85 mmHg 80 – 100 mmHg The most recent ABGs show a drop in the pH. What action does the nurse take next?