A nurse assesses a diabetic client who is admitted with an acid-base imbalance. The client's arterial blood gas values are pH 7.39, PaCO2 27 mm Hg, and HCO3 19 mEq/L. Which sign or symptom does the nurse identify as an example of the client's compensatory mechanisms?

Increased release of acids from the kidneys.

Increased urinary output.

Increased thirst and hunger.

Increased rate and depth of respirations.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A.   This is not a compensatory mechanism for metabolic acidosis. In fact, during metabolic acidosis, the kidneys excrete hydrogen ions (acid) and reabsorb bicarbonate (base) to help normalize the pH of the blood.
B.   Increased urinary output (polyuria) is not typically a direct compensatory response to metabolic acidosis. However, metabolic acidosis can lead to osmotic diuresis in certain conditions, which may increase urinary output as the body tries to excrete excess acids and maintain electrolyte balance.
C.   Increased thirst (polydipsia) and hunger (polyphagia) are not typical compensatory responses to metabolic acidosis. These symptoms are more associated with hyperglycemia in diabetes rather than acid-base disturbances.
D.   During metabolic acidosis, the respiratory system compensates by increasing the rate and depth of respirations (hyperventilation). By blowing off more CO2 (carbon dioxide), the body tries to decrease the

amount of carbonic acid in the blood, thereby increasing the pH towards normal. This compensatory mechanism helps to raise the pH back towards the normal range (7.35-7.45).

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. A potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L is below the normal range (typically 3.5-5.0 mEq/L). Abnormal potassium levels can affect cardiac function, leading to arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), especially if the potassium level drops further or if there is rapid fluctuation. This is a critical finding that requires immediate attention from the surgical team to assess the client's cardiac status and determine if potassium replacement is needed before proceeding with surgery.
B. Creatinine levels are used to assess kidney function. A creatinine level of 1.2 mg/dL is within the normal range (typically 0.6-1.2 mg/dL). While kidney function is important to evaluate before surgery, this result is not immediately concerning enough to require an urgent call to the surgical team.
C. Hemoglobin levels are assessed to evaluate oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. A hemoglobin level of 14.8 g/dL is within the normal range (typically 12-16 g/dL for women and 13-18 g/dL for men). This result indicates adequate oxygen-carrying capacity and does not require immediate communication with the surgical team.

D. Sodium levels are important for fluid balance and nerve function. A sodium level of 134 mEq/L is within the normal range (typically 135-145 mEq/L). While sodium levels should be monitored, this result is not critically abnormal and does not necessitate an urgent call to the surgical team.

A. To determine how the client will tolerate the procedure B. To establish a baseline for postoperative assessment C. To prevent postoperative hypotension D. To assess the client's pain level

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature, provide baseline information about the client's cardiovascular and respiratory status. This assessment helps predict how well the client might tolerate the surgical procedure under anesthesia and monitor for any deviations during the procedure.
B. Establishing baseline vital signs before surgery provides a comparison point for monitoring the client's recovery and identifying any postoperative complications. Changes in vital signs postoperatively can indicate potential issues such as bleeding, fluid imbalance, or respiratory compromise.
C. Monitoring blood pressure before surgery helps identify clients at risk for intraoperative hypotension, particularly important during induction of anesthesia and throughout the surgical procedure. Establishing baseline blood pressure levels guides intraoperative management to maintain hemodynamic stability.
D. While vital signs are important for assessing physiological status, they do not directly assess pain. Pain assessment involves asking the client about their pain experience, location, intensity, and factors that alleviate or exacerbate pain. Vital signs can indirectly reflect pain if pain causes changes in heart rate or blood pressure, but they are not specific indicators of pain.

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A nurse assesses a diabetic client who is admitted with an acid-base imbalance. The client's arterial blood gas values are pH 7.39, PaCO2 27 mm Hg, and HCO3 19 mEq/L. Which sign or symptom does the nurse identify as an example of the client's compensatory mechanisms?

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