A nurse is caring for a client who has metabolic alkalosis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Place the client on continuous cardiac monitoring.
Obtain a prescription for insulin for the client.
Plan to administer sodium bicarbonate to the client.
Have the client breathe into a paper bag.
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is: A. Place the client on continuous cardiac monitoring.
Choice A reason:
Placing the client on continuous cardiac monitoring is crucial because metabolic alkalosis can lead to life-threatening arrhythmias due to electrolyte imbalances, particularly hypokalemia. Continuous monitoring allows for the early detection and management of these arrhythmias, ensuring patient safety.
Choice B reason:
Obtaining a prescription for insulin is not relevant for treating metabolic alkalosis. Insulin is typically used for managing hyperglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis, not for correcting alkalosis.
Choice C reason:
Planning to administer sodium bicarbonate is incorrect because sodium bicarbonate is used to treat metabolic acidosis, not alkalosis. Administering it in this context could worsen the alkalosis.
Choice D reason:
Having the client breathe into a paper bag is a technique used for respiratory alkalosis to increase CO2 levels. It is not appropriate for metabolic alkalosis, which requires different management strategies.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Donning sterile gloves is an essential step to prevent contamination and infection during the insertion of an indwelling urinary catheter. The nurse should also use aseptic technique and a sterile catheter kit.
Choice B reason: Applying an oil-based lubricant to the indwelling urinary catheter is not recommended, as it can damage the latex material and increase the risk of catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI). The nurse should use a water-soluble lubricant instead.
Choice C reason: Testing the balloon on the indwelling urinary catheter before insertion is a good practice, as it ensures that the balloon is functioning properly and does not leak or burst. The nurse should inflate and deflate the balloon with sterile water or saline using a syringe.
Choice D reason: Using one cotton swab to clean the client's urinary meatus is not sufficient, as it may not remove all the bacteria and debris. The nurse should use at least three cotton swabs and clean the meatus from front to back in a circular motion. The nurse should also use an antiseptic solution such as chlorhexidine or povidone-iodine.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Dry skin is not a sign of respiratory alkalosis. It can be caused by other conditions such as dehydration, eczema, or hypothyroidism.
Choice B reason: Abdominal pain is not a sign of respiratory alkalosis. It can be caused by other conditions such as gastritis, appendicitis, or gallstones.
Choice C reason: Diarrhea is not a sign of respiratory alkalosis. It can be caused by other conditions such as infection, inflammation, or food intolerance.
Choice D reason: Numbness of fingers is a sign of respiratory alkalosis, as it indicates a low level of calcium in the blood (hypocalcemia). Hypocalcemia can result from the alkalosis, as it causes the calcium to bind to proteins and become less available. Numbness of fingers can also affect the toes and lips.
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