A patient with a lower respiratory infection has a pH of 7.25,a PaCO₂ of 55 mm Hg,and a HCO₃^- level of 20 mmol/L (20 mEq/L) .The physician has been notified.Which is the priority nursing intervention for this patient?

A) Check the colour of the patient's urine output.
B) Place the patient in Trendelenburg position.
C) Encourage the patient to increase respirations.
D) Place the patient in high Fowler's position.

Lower Respiratory Infection

An infection affecting the airways and lungs, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, leading to symptoms like coughing and difficulty breathing.

High Fowler's Position

A patient's position where the backrest is raised to 60-90 degrees, aiding in respiratory function and used during feeding and certain medical procedures.

pH

A scale used to specify the acidity or basicity of an aqueous solution, ranging from 0 to 14.