A nurse is caring for a client who has nausea and is vomiting. The nurse should identify that the client is at risk for which of the following acid-base imbalances?

Choice A reason: Caffeinated beverages can cause diarrhea by stimulating the intestinal motility and increasing the fluid loss. They can also irritate the lining of the stomach and intestines.

Choice B reason: Low-fiber cereal is not likely to cause diarrhea. Fiber helps to bulk up the stool and regulate the bowel movements. Low-fiber foods are often recommended for clients with diarrhea to reduce intestinal activity.

Choice C reason: White rice is not likely to cause diarrhea. It is a bland and starchy food that can help to bind the stool and reduce fluid loss. White rice is often part of the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) that is suggested for clients with diarrhea.

Choice D reason: Ripe bananas are not likely to cause diarrhea. They are rich in potassium, which can help to replenish the electrolytes lost due to diarrhea. They also contain pectin, a soluble fiber that can help to firm up the stool.

Choice A reason: Dry skin is not a sign of respiratory alkalosis. Respiratory alkalosis is a condition where the blood pH is too high due to excessive loss of carbon dioxide through rapid breathing. Dry skin can be caused by dehydration, cold weather, or skin conditions.

Choice B reason: Diarrhea is not a sign of respiratory alkalosis. Diarrhea is a condition where the stool is loose and watery due to increased intestinal motility or infection. Diarrhea can cause metabolic acidosis, which is a condition where the blood pH is too low due to excessive loss of bicarbonate.

Choice C reason: Abdominal pain is not a sign of respiratory alkalosis. Abdominal pain is a symptom that can have many causes, such as gastritis, appendicitis, or irritable bowel syndrome. Abdominal pain can also cause hyperventilation due to anxiety or discomfort, but it is not a direct result of respiratory alkalosis.

Choice D reason: Hyperventilation is a sign of respiratory alkalosis. Hyperventilation is a condition where the breathing rate is faster than normal, causing excess carbon dioxide to be expelled from the lungs. This lowers the partial pressure of carbon dioxide in the blood, which increases the blood pH and causes alkalosis. Hyperventilation can be caused by anxiety, fever, pain, or lung diseases.