A nurse is assessing a client who has COPD. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Weight gain
Decrease in anteroposterior diameter of the chest
HCO3 24 mEq/L
pH 7.31
The Correct Answer is D
pH 7.31
Rationale:
A - This is incorrect because weight gain is not expected in clients who have COPD, as they often have difficulty eating and digesting food due to dyspnea and fatigue.
B - This is incorrect because a decrease in anteroposterior diameter of the chest is not typical of COPD, as the condition causes hyperinflation and air trapping in the lungs, leading to an increase in chest size and a barrel-shaped appearance.
C - This is incorrect because HCO3 24 mEq/L is within the normal range for blood bicarbonate levels, which are 22 to 26 mEq/L. Clients who have COPD often have chronic respiratory acidosis, which stimulates the kidneys to retain bicarbonate and increase its levels in the blood to compensate for the low pH.
D - This is correct because pH 7.31 indicates acidosis, which is common in clients who have COPD due to impaired gas exchange and accumulation of carbon dioxide in the blood.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Insomnia is a common side effect of sertraline and many other antidepressant medications. It is not indicative of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by excessive serotonin levels in the brain.
Choice B rationale:
Constipation is a side effect of some antidepressant medications, including sertraline. It is not a symptom of serotonin syndrome, which presents with a combination of symptoms such as confusion, agitation, rapid heart rate, dilated pupils, muscle rigidity, and high body temperature.
Choice C rationale:
Dry mouth is another common side effect of sertraline and many other medications. While uncomfortable, it is not a sign of serotonin syndrome. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome are neurological and autonomic, involving changes in mental status, muscle activity, and vital signs.
Choice D rationale:
Excessive sweating, also known as diaphoresis, can be a symptom of serotonin syndrome. Other symptoms might include agitation, tremor, hyperreflexia, fever, dilated pupils, and diarrhea. If a patient experiences these symptoms while taking sertraline, it could indicate serotonin syndrome and should be reported immediately for medical evaluation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Hyperthyroidism is not a contraindication for niacin use. Niacin is used to lower LDL cholesterol levels and has no specific contraindications related to thyroid disorders.
Choice B rationale:
Asthma is not a contraindication for niacin use. Niacin does not interact with asthma medications or worsen asthma symptoms, so it is not contraindicated in individuals with asthma.
Choice C rationale:
High blood pressure is not a contraindication for niacin use. In fact, niacin can help lower blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular health. It is often prescribed to individuals with high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels.
Choice D rationale:
Active liver disease is a contraindication for niacin use. Niacin can cause liver damage, and individuals with active liver disease should avoid niacin therapy to prevent further harm to the liver. Monitoring liver function tests is crucial in patients taking niacin to ensure their liver health.
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