A client has the following arterial blood gas (ABG) results: pH 7.51, PaCO2 39 mm Hg, HCO3 32 mEq/L. How would the nurse interpret these results?
Normal values: pH: 7.35-7.45, PaCO2: 35-45 mm Hg, HCO3: 22-26 mEq/L
Uncompensated metabolic alkalosis
Uncompensated respiratory acidosis
Uncompensated metabolic acidosis
Uncompensated respiratory alkalosis
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: The ABG results show an elevated pH and HCO3, which are indicative of metabolic alkalosis. The PaCO2 is within the normal range, suggesting that it is uncompensated.
Choice B reason: Respiratory acidosis would be indicated by an elevated PaCO2 and a decreased pH, which is not the case here.
Choice C reason: Metabolic acidosis would be indicated by a decreased pH and HCO3, which is not consistent with the given results.
Choice D reason: Respiratory alkalosis would be indicated by a decreased PaCO2 and an increased pH, which is not consistent with the given results.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Dyskinesias, which are involuntary, erratic, writhing movements of the face, arms, legs, or trunk, are common side effects of long-term use of levodopa and carbidopa, especially after many years of therapy.
Choice B reason: Dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, is not commonly associated as a side effect of levodopa and carbidopa.
Choice C reason: Hypertension is not typically a side effect of levodopa and carbidopa; these medications can sometimes cause low blood pressure, particularly upon standing.
Choice D reason: Cold intolerance is not a recognized side effect of levodopa and carbidopa.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Assessing for hematuria is important but not the priority action. Hematuria can be a symptom of various conditions and does not directly address the abnormal laboratory results.
Choice B reason: Monitoring temperature is a routine action in sepsis management but does not address the immediate concern of the abnormal laboratory results, specifically the elevated aPTT and low platelet count.
Choice C reason: Evaluating skin turgor is a method to assess dehydration, which is not the immediate concern indicated by the laboratory results.
Choice D reason: The elevated aPTT and low platelet count suggest a potential coagulopathy, which could be a sign of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), a complication of sepsis. Administering heparin may be part of the treatment for DIC to prevent further clotting and is a priority action in this context.
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