A client receiving mechanical ventilation has a pH of 7.26, PaCO2 of 68 mm Hg, and a PaO2 of 92 mm Hg. Which intervention should the nurse implement?Reference Range:
Arterial Blood Gas (ABG)
pH [Adult/child: 7.35 to 7.45]
PaCO2 [Adult/child: 35 to 45 mm Hg)
HCO- [Adult/child: 21 to 28 mEq/L (21 to 28 mmol/L)] PaO2 [Adult/child: 80 to 100 mm Hg)

Increase rate of ventilation.

Decrease expiratory flow time.

Increase ventilator tidal volume.

Decrease expiratory pressure.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Rationale

A. The client's pH is low (acidotic), and the PaCO2 is high (respiratory acidosis). Increasing the rate of ventilation (respiratory rate) can help to decrease PaCO2 by increasing alveolar ventilation, thereby helping to correct respiratory acidosis.

B. Expiratory flow time affects the time available for exhalation. While this may affect the overall mechanics of ventilation, it is not directly targeting the primary issue of elevated PaCO2 and acidosis.

C. Increasing tidal volume increases the volume of air delivered with each breath. This can improve ventilation efficiency but may not address the underlying problem of elevated PaCO2 unless it leads to increased minute ventilation.

D. Expiratory pressure is related to positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP), which helps maintain alveolar recruitment and improve oxygenation. Decreasing expiratory pressure may not directly address the elevated PaCO2 and acidosis.

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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is ["D","E"]

Explanation

A. Perform pulmonary function test
This is important for assessing lung function, but it is not an immediate priority during an acute exacerbation when the patient's oxygen saturation is low and they are experiencing respiratory distress.
Pulmonary function testing can be done once the patient's acute symptoms are stabilized.
B. Measure vital signs
While vital signs are important for ongoing assessment, the patient's vital signs were already assessed at admission and are being monitored every 4 hours as per orders.
Administering oxygen and albuterol to stabilize the patient's condition takes precedence over routine vital sign checks immediately after the initial assessment.
C. Provide a regular diet tray
This is a routine aspect of care and does not address the acute respiratory distress or hypoxemia that require immediate attention.
It can be done once the patient's respiratory status has stabilized.
D. Give albuterol as ordered
The patient is experiencing an asthma exacerbation with wheezing and subcostal retractions. Albuterol is a bronchodilator that helps relieve bronchospasm and improve airflow.
It was ordered for nebulization now and every 4 hours PRN (as needed) for wheezing.
Administering albuterol promptly is crucial to help alleviate respiratory distress and improve lung function.
E. Apply oxygen 1 L/minute
The patient's oxygen saturation is 91% on room air, which is below the target of greater than 94%. Oxygen therapy is indicated to correct hypoxemia and improve oxygen saturation.
The order specifies to titrate oxygen to keep saturation greater than 94%, starting at 1 L/minute via nasal cannula.

A. Leave the client's room and return later in the day. B. Refer client to the social worker for support therapy. C. Encourage client to implement relaxation techniques. D. Explain that insulin is a life-saving drug for the client.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Rationale

A. This allows the client time to process their emotions. A diagnosis with a chronic illness can be overwhelming.

B. Referring the client to a social worker for support therapy is a good idea for ongoing emotional support and counseling. However, at this moment, the client might need immediate assistance

C. While relaxation techniques can be helpful in managing stress and anxiety, they might not address the immediate need for insulin administration education.

D. Explaining the importance of insulin, is crucial, but it may not be effective if the client is not in a receptive state.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Exhibits After the nurse assesses the client, the healthcare provider writes prescriptions. The nurse reviews the prescriptions. Which 2 prescriptions should the nurse complete first?

Correct Answer is ["D","E"]

Explanation

When the nurse attempts to teach self-administration of insulin injections to a client who is newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM), the client tells the nurse in a loud voice to leave the room. Which action should the nurse take?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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