A client with a bowel obstruction is experiencing intractable vomiting for the last several hours despite the administration of prescribed antiemetics. The nurse obtains the client's arterial blood gas (ABG) results which identify a pH of 7.50, a PaCO2 of 42 mm Hg, and an HCO3 of 33 me/L (33 mmol/L). The nurse should interpret these results as confirming which acid-base imbalance?

Choice A reason: Lethargy and lack of appetite are symptoms that might indicate hypothyroidism or an insufficient dosage of levothyroxine. These symptoms are not typically associated with a dosage that is too high.

Choice B reason: Bradycardia and constipation are also indicative of hypothyroidism or an inadequate dosage of levothyroxine. These symptoms suggest a need for a higher dosage rather than indicating that the current dosage is too high.

Choice C reason: Muscle cramping and dry, flushed skin can be associated with electrolyte imbalances or dehydration, but they are not specific symptoms of an excessive dosage of levothyroxine.

Choice D reason: Palpitations and shortness of breath are signs of hyperthyroidism, which can occur if the dosage of levothyroxine is too high. These symptoms indicate that the client's metabolism is excessively stimulated, leading to cardiovascular strain and respiratory distress. It is crucial for the nurse to monitor these symptoms and adjust the medication dosage accordingly.

Choice A reason: Petechial haemorrhage under the client's eyes can be a sign of various conditions, including increased intrathoracic pressure from vomiting. However, it is not the most urgent finding in this scenario. The nurse should focus on the finding that indicates a potential life-threatening condition.

Choice B reason: Right lower abdomen rebound tenderness is a sign of peritonitis, which can be caused by appendicitis or other serious abdominal conditions. This is an urgent finding that requires immediate medical attention, as it indicates inflammation of the peritoneum and potential risk of perforation or severe infection.

Choice C reason: Severe headache with photosensitivity can be associated with conditions such as meningitis or migraines. While concerning, it does not take precedence over the abdominal signs that indicate a potentially life-threatening condition like peritonitis.

Choice D reason: Dark green coloured emesis can be indicative of bile or upper gastrointestinal content, which might be seen in conditions such as intestinal obstruction or vomiting. However, it is not as urgent as the finding of rebound tenderness, which suggests an acute and severe abdominal condition that needs immediate intervention.