A client with a history of lung disease is at risk for developing respiratory acidosis. The nurse should anticipate to assess which signs and symptoms to indicate respiratory acidosis?
Bradypnea, dizziness, and paresthesia
Bradycardia and hyperactivity
Headache, restlessness and confusion.
Irritability and seizures
The Correct Answer is C
A. Bradypnea, dizziness, and paresthesia: Bradypnea is associated with CO₂ retention, but paresthesia (tingling sensations) is more common in alkalosis due to calcium shifts.
B. Bradycardia and hyperactivity: Bradycardia can occur in severe acidosis, but hyperactivity is not a typical sign.
C. Headache, restlessness, and confusion: Respiratory acidosis occurs when CO₂ retention leads to cerebral vasodilation, increasing intracranial pressure and causing headache, restlessness, and confusion.
D. Irritability and seizures: Seizures are more common in severe alkalosis due to neuronal hyperexcitability.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Chloride level would be decreased: Metabolic alkalosis is often associated with hypochloremia, especially when caused by vomiting or diuretics. However, hypokalemia is more clinically significant.
B. Sodium level would be elevated: Sodium levels are not directly affected by metabolic alkalosis.
C. Magnesium level would be elevated: Magnesium levels are not significantly altered in metabolic alkalosis.
D. Potassium level would be decreased: A bicarbonate level of 30 mEq/L indicates metabolic alkalosis. In alkalosis, hydrogen ions shift out of the cells, and potassium moves into the cells, leading to hypokalemia.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Administer supplemental oxygen: Hypokalemia primarily affects cardiac and neuromuscular function, not oxygenation. Oxygen may be needed if dysrhythmias develop but is not the highest priority.
B. Seizure precautions: While severe hypokalemia can cause muscle weakness, seizures are not the primary concern. Cardiac effects take priority.
C. Cardiac monitoring: A potassium level of 2.2 mEq/L is critically low, increasing the risk of life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Continuous cardiac monitoring helps detect dangerous dysrhythmias like ventricular tachycardia.
D. Initiating a fluid restriction: Fluid restriction is more relevant for hyperkalemia or fluid overload, not hypokalemia.
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.
