A client with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus develops metabolic acidosis. Which assessment finding related to the imbalance indicates that the client's compensatory mechanisms are working?
Vomiting
Tachycardia
Deep rapid breathing
Watery diarrhea
The Correct Answer is C
A. Vomiting: Vomiting is a common symptom associated with metabolic acidosis but is not a compensatory mechanism. It can lead to further electrolyte imbalances and dehydration.
B. Tachycardia: Tachycardia can occur as a response to acidosis but is not a direct compensatory mechanism for metabolic acidosis.
C. Deep rapid breathing: This is the correct choice. Deep rapid breathing, or Kussmaul respirations, is a compensatory mechanism for metabolic acidosis. It helps to expel carbon dioxide, thereby reducing acidity in the blood.
D. Watery diarrhea: Diarrhea can contribute to electrolyte imbalances and may exacerbate acidosis but is not a compensatory response by the body.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Respiratory rate 24/min: A respiratory rate of 24/min indicates tachypnea, which can be a sign of ongoing fluid volume excess or other complications. This does not show effective treatment.
B. Blood pressure 138/86 mm Hg: While this blood pressure is within the higher range of normal, it does not specifically indicate effective treatment of fluid volume excess. Blood pressure alone is not a reliable indicator of fluid status.
C. Total urinary output 700 mL in 24 hours: A urinary output of 700 mL in 24 hours is below the normal range (typically 800-2000 mL per day) and suggests that the fluid volume excess has not been effectively treated. Adequate urinary output is a key indicator of effective fluid management.
D. Weight loss of 4 lb in 24 hours: A weight loss of 4 lb in 24 hours is a clear indicator that the client has lost excess fluid, which is the desired outcome in treating fluid volume excess. This demonstrates that the treatment has been effective in reducing fluid retention
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Decrease the TPN rate to 60 ml/hr: Gradually decreasing the TPN rate is a common practice, but it is typically done in conjunction with transitioning to another form of nutrition, not as a standalone order.
B. Replace TPN infusion with an intravenous dextrose solution: This is the correct choice. When weaning off TPN, it is important to prevent hypoglycemia by replacing the TPN with a dextrose solution to maintain blood glucose levels while transitioning to oral or enteral feeding.
C. Begin infusion of 0.9% normal saline at 30 ml/hr: While saline may be used for hydration, it does not address the need to manage blood glucose levels during the transition from TPN.
D. Discontinue TPN infusion: Discontinuing TPN abruptly can lead to complications such as hypoglycemia. It is important to gradually taper off TPN while replacing it with a dextrose solution.
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.
