A nurse is caring for a client who has diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and is manifesting Kussmaul breathing. Which of the following pathophysiological mechanisms is related to Kussmaul breathing?
Metabolic alkalosis
Metabolic acidosis
Respiratory alkalosis
Respiratory acidosis
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Metabolic alkalosis is a condition characterized by an elevated pH in body tissues, typically due to an excess of bicarbonate or a loss of hydrogen ions. This condition is not associated with Kussmaul breathing. Kussmaul breathing is a deep and labored breathing pattern often seen in patients with metabolic acidosis, not alkalosis. In metabolic alkalosis, the body does not need to expel excess acid through rapid breathing, so Kussmaul respirations are not observed.
Choice B reason: Metabolic acidosis is a condition where there is an excess of acid in the body due to the accumulation of acid or the loss of bicarbonate. This condition is commonly seen in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), where the body produces high levels of ketones, leading to acidosis. Kussmaul breathing is a compensatory mechanism in metabolic acidosis, where the body attempts to reduce the acid level by expelling carbon dioxide through rapid, deep breaths. This type of breathing helps to lower the blood’s acidity by reducing the concentration of carbon dioxide, which is an acid.
Choice C reason: Respiratory alkalosis is a condition where there is a decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the blood due to excessive breathing or hyperventilation. This condition leads to an increase in blood pH, making it more alkaline. Kussmaul breathing is not associated with respiratory alkalosis because it is a response to metabolic acidosis, not a condition where the body is already expelling too much carbon dioxide.
Choice D reason: Respiratory acidosis is a condition where there is an excess of carbon dioxide in the blood due to inadequate respiration. This leads to a decrease in blood pH, making it more acidic. While respiratory acidosis involves an acidic environment, Kussmaul breathing is specifically a response to metabolic acidosis, not respiratory acidosis. In respiratory acidosis, the body would not use Kussmaul respirations as a compensatory mechanism.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
While monitoring the frequency of urination is important for managing diabetes insipidus, it is not the most critical aspect of discharge teaching. Diabetes insipidus causes excessive urination, and patients should be aware of this symptom. However, understanding the importance of wearing a medical alert bracelet is more crucial for ensuring immediate and appropriate care in emergencies.
Choice B Reason:
Changes in appetite are not a primary concern for patients with diabetes insipidus. The condition primarily affects fluid balance and urine output rather than appetite. Therefore, this topic is less relevant compared to the need for a medical alert bracelet.
Choice C Reason:
The benefit of a medical alert bracelet is paramount for patients with diabetes insipidus. In case of an emergency, the bracelet can inform healthcare providers about the patient’s condition, ensuring they receive appropriate and timely treatment. This can be life-saving, especially if the patient is unable to communicate their medical history.
Choice D Reason:
Weight gain or loss can be a secondary concern for patients with diabetes insipidus, as the condition primarily affects fluid balance. While it is important to monitor weight to assess fluid status, it is not as critical as ensuring the patient understands the importance of wearing a medical alert bracelet.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Conivaptan hydrochloride is a vasopressin receptor antagonist used to treat hyponatremia associated with SIADH. It works by blocking the action of ADH, thereby promoting water excretion without losing sodium. This medication is appropriate for managing SIADH.
Choice B Reason:
Vasopressin, also known as antidiuretic hormone (ADH), is not appropriate for a patient with SIADH. SIADH is characterized by excessive release of ADH, leading to water retention and hyponatremia. Administering vasopressin would exacerbate the condition by increasing water retention and further lowering sodium levels.
Choice C Reason:
Sodium chloride tablets are used to manage hyponatremia by increasing sodium levels in the blood. This treatment is appropriate for patients with SIADH to help correct the sodium imbalance caused by excessive ADH.
Choice D Reason:
Tolvaptan is another vasopressin receptor antagonist that is used to treat hyponatremia associated with SIADH. It helps to increase serum sodium levels by promoting water excretion while retaining sodium. This medication is suitable for managing SIADH.
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