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?
Respiratory acidosis.
Metabolic acidosis.
Metabolic alkalosis.
Respiratory alkalosis.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a low pH and an elevated PaCO2 due to hypoventilation, which results in CO2 retention. The ABG results in this case show a normal PaCO2, making this option incorrect.
Choice B reason: Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH and a low HCO3 due to an accumulation of acids or loss of bicarbonate. The ABG results show a high pH and a high HCO3, which are opposite to the findings of metabolic acidosis.
Choice C reason: Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and an elevated HCO3. This condition can result from excessive loss of stomach acid due to vomiting or the use of diuretics. The ABG results show a pH of 7.50 and HCO3 of 33 me/L, both indicative of metabolic alkalosis.
Choice D reason: Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and a low PaCO2 due to hyperventilation, which leads to CO2 loss. The ABG results show a normal PaCO2, ruling out respiratory alkalosis as the correct diagnosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Determining if the client is using an inhaler before exercising is the most immediate and relevant action. Inhalers, particularly bronchodilators, can help prevent exercise-induced bronchoconstriction by relaxing the airway muscles and reducing mucus production.
Choice B reason: Assessing the client for signs and symptoms of upper airway infection is important but may not be directly related to the episodes triggered by exercise. This action might be more appropriate if there are other indications of infection.
Choice C reason: Reviewing the client's routine asthma management prescriptions is a good practice, but it should come after addressing the immediate concern of managing exercise-induced symptoms. Ensuring proper inhaler use can have a more immediate impact.
Choice D reason: Teaching the client to use pursed-lip breathing when episodes occur is useful for managing dyspneal but does not address the prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction as effectively as using an inhaler.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Taking a walk with the client is an effective intervention for addressing agitation and restlessness in a client with Alzheimer's disease. Physical activity can help reduce anxiety and agitation, and walking provides a safe and structured way for the client to expend energy while being closely supervised.
Choice B reason: Sitting the client in a recliner may provide temporary comfort, but it does not address the underlying agitation and restlessness. The client may still attempt to leave the room and become more frustrated if their movement is restricted.
Choice C reason: Administering a sleeping medication can have sedative effects, but it should not be the first-line intervention for agitation and restlessness in clients with Alzheimer's disease. Non-pharmacological approaches, such as walking, should be tried first. Sedatives can also increase the risk of falls and other complications.
Choice D reason: Moving the client to a locked unit may be necessary for safety in some cases, but it should not be the initial intervention for agitation and restlessness. The goal is to use less restrictive interventions first to manage the client's behaviour.
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