The nurse is reviewing the patient's arterial blood gas results. The PaO₂ is 96 mm Hg, pH is 7.20, PaCO₂ is 55 mm Hg, and HCO₃ is 25 mEq/L. What might the nurse expect to observe on assessment of this patient?

A) Disorientation and tremors
B) Tachycardia and decreased blood pressure
C) Increased anxiety and irritability
D) Hyperventilation and lethargy

The patient is experiencing respiratory acidosis ( $\downarrow$ pH and $\uparrow$ PaCO₂) which may be manifested by disorientation, tremors, possible seizures, and decreased level of consciousness. Tachycardia and decreased blood pressure are not characteristic of a problem of respiratory acidosis. Increased anxiety and hyperventilation will cause respiratory alkalosis, which is manifested by an increase in pH and a decrease in PaCO₂.