A nurse is caring for a client undergoing diagnostic evaluation for suspected pulmonary edema. Which finding on an arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis is consistent with pulmonary edema?
Decreased pH (acidosis)
Elevated partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2)
Decreased partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2)
Increased bicarbonate (HCO3-) levels
The Correct Answer is A
A) Correct. Pulmonary edema can lead to impaired gas exchange, resulting in respiratory acidosis, characterized by a decreased pH on ABG analysis.
B) Incorrect. Pulmonary edema typically leads to decreased oxygenation, so an elevated PaO2 would not be consistent with this condition.
C) Incorrect. A decreased PaCO2 is more commonly associated with respiratory alkalosis and is not a primary finding in pulmonary edema.
D) Incorrect. Increased bicarbonate (HCO3-) levels are more indicative of metabolic alkalosis and are not typically associated with pulmonary edema.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Intravenous antibiotics may be necessary for certain pulmonary infections, but they do not address the immediate oxygenation needs in acute pulmonary edema.
B) Correct. Providing supplemental oxygen helps increase the client's oxygen levels, improving oxygenation in acute pulmonary edema.
C) Incorrect. While deep breathing exercises are beneficial for overall lung health, they may not be sufficient to address the immediate oxygenation issue in acute pulmonary edema.
D) Incorrect. Antipyretic medications are used to reduce fever and do not directly improve oxygenation in pulmonary edema.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Pulmonary edema is not a bacterial lung infection.
B) Incorrect. Pleuritis (inflammation of the pleura) is a different condition unrelated to pulmonary edema.
C) Correct. Pulmonary edema is characterized by the accumulation of excess fluid in the lungs, often in the alveoli and interstitial spaces.
D) Incorrect. A blockage in the coronary arteries is related to myocardial infarction (heart attack) and is not the primary characteristic of pulmonary edema.
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