A client who is found unresponsive has arterial blood gases drawn, and the results indicate the following:
- pH is 7.12 (normal range: 7.35-7.45)
- PaCO2 is 90 mm Hg (normal range: 35-45)
- HCO3- is 22 mEq/L (normal range: 22-26)
The nurse interprets the results as indicating which condition?
Metabolic alkalosis
Respiratory alkalosis
Respiratory acidosis
Metabolic acidosis
The Correct Answer is C
A. Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and elevated bicarbonate levels, which is not present in these results.
B. Respiratory alkalosis would present with an increased pH and decreased PaCO2, which does not apply here.
C. The low pH (7.12) indicates acidemia, and the elevated PaCO2 (90 mm Hg) suggests hypoventilation and respiratory acidosis due to CO2 retention. The bicarbonate level is within normal limits, further supporting respiratory acidosis.
D. Metabolic acidosis would be indicated by a low pH and low bicarbonate levels; however, the bicarbonate is normal in this case, ruling out metabolic acidosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The patient's chart may provide historical information but does not reflect the current pain intensity the client is experiencing.
B. Visual observation for nonverbal signs of pain can be useful, especially for nonverbal patients, but self-reporting is the most accurate measure of pain intensity.
C. The client's self-report of pain severity is the gold standard for assessing pain intensity, as it reflects the individual’s personal experience of pain.
D. While the nature and invasiveness of the surgical procedure can provide context for expected pain levels, they do not replace the importance of the client's self-report in managing pain effectively.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. This description relates more to a sensory discrimination test, not graphesthesia.
B. This option does not accurately describe the graphesthesia test, which involves identifying shapes or numbers rather than just touch location.
C. In the graphesthesia test, the client closes their eyes while the nurse uses a blunt object to write a number or shape in the client's palm, and the client must identify what was written. This assesses the ability to recognize letters or numbers drawn on the skin.
D. This option describes a two-point discrimination test rather than graphesthesia, which focuses on identifying drawn shapes or numbers.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
