A nurse is caring for a client who has acute kidney injury.
The client's ABGs are: pH: 7.26, PaCO2: 30 mm Hg, HCO3: 14 mEq/L. Which of the following acid imbalances should the nurse identify the client is experiencing?

Choice A rationale:

The list obtained from the client should include all medications the client is taking, regardless of who prescribed them. This includes over-the-counter medications and supplements.

Choice B rationale:

Providing a comprehensive list of medications for the client at the time of discharge is an important component of medication reconciliation. This helps to ensure the client understands what medications they should be taking, how to take them, and why they are taking them.

Choice C rationale:

The reconciliation process should be completed at each transition of care, not just when the client is first admitted to the hospital. This is to ensure that any changes in medication are accurately documented and communicated.

Choice D rationale:

A nurse should not write a verbal order in the medical record for medications the client was taking at home without confirmation from the provider. This could lead to errors in medication administration.

Choice A rationale:

Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a high PaCO2 and a low pH. The client’s ABG results do not match this pattern.

Choice B rationale:

Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low HCO3 and a low pH. The client’s ABG results do not match this pattern.

Choice C rationale:

Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a low PaCO2 and a high pH. The client’s ABG results do not match this pattern.

Choice D rationale:

Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by a high HCO3 and a high pH. The client’s ABG results match this pattern. Normal values for pH, PaCO2, and HCO3 are 7.35-7.45, 35-45 mm Hg, and 22-26 mEq/L respectively.