A nurse is caring for a client whose arterial blood gas results show the following results:. pH: 7.2. PaCO2: 50 mm Hg. HCO3: 24 mEq/L. The nurse should identify the client is experiencing which of the following acid-base conditions?
Respiratory acidosis.
Metabolic alkalosis.
Metabolic acidosis.
Respiratory alkalosis.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
The client's arterial blood gas (ABG) results indicate a low pH (acidemia) and high PaCO2, which is characteristic of respiratory acidosis. Respiratory acidosis occurs when there is inadequate removal of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the body, leading to an accumulation of CO2 and a decrease in pH. In this case, the high PaCO2 (50 mm Hg) indicates that the client is retaining carbon dioxide, likely due to impaired ventilation. The normal pH range is 7.35 to 7.45, and the normal PaCO2 range is 35 to 45 mm Hg. These ABG values reflect an acid-base imbalance in the respiratory system, specifically, respiratory acidosis.
Choice B rationale:
Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an elevated pH and an increase in bicarbonate (HCO3) levels. This is not the condition described in the client's ABG results, as the pH is low (acidemic) and HCO3 levels are within the normal range (24 mEq/L).
Choice C rationale:
Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH and a decreased HCO3 level. The client's ABG results do not align with metabolic acidosis since the pH is low (acidemic) and the HCO3 level is within the normal range (24 mEq/L).
Choice D rationale:
Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and low PaCO2. The client's ABG results do not match this condition as the pH is low (acidemic) and the PaCO2 is high (50 mm Hg), indicating respiratory acidosis. Therefore, choice A, respiratory acidosis, is the correct interpretation of the ABG results.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Providing samples for sputum cultures every 6 weeks is not a necessary instruction for a client with pulmonary tuberculosis. Sputum cultures are typically performed at specific intervals to monitor the progress of treatment and assess for bacterial resistance. This information is essential for healthcare providers but not for the client's daily care and safety.
Choice B rationale:
Consuming alcohol in moderation while taking antituberculosis medications is not recommended. Alcohol can interact with these medications and reduce their effectiveness. It is essential to advise the client to avoid alcohol completely while on tuberculosis treatment to ensure the best possible outcome.
Choice C rationale:
Wearing a mask while out or around crowds of people is a crucial precaution to prevent the spread of tuberculosis, which is highly contagious. Tuberculosis is transmitted through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, making mask-wearing an effective measure to protect both the client and others. This instruction promotes the safety of the client and the community.
Choice D rationale:
Placing tissue soiled with respiratory secretions in a paper bag for later disposal is not a recommended practice. Infectious material should be properly disposed of in biohazard containers or bags designed for infectious waste. This instruction does not follow the standard safety protocols for managing infectious materials and is not in the best interest of the client's health.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C: “I will follow a diet high in calories and protein.”
Here are the rationales for each choice:
Choice A rationale:“I will drink about 34 ounces of fluid every day.” While staying hydrated is important for overall health, this statement does not specifically address a key self-management strategy for emphysema. Adequate fluid intake can help thin mucus, making it easier to expel, but it is not the most critical aspect of managing emphysema.
Choice B rationale:“I will inhale slowly through pursed lips to help me breathe better.” This statement is incorrect because the correct technique is toexhalethrough pursed lips, not inhale. Pursed-lip breathing helps to keep the airways open longer, reduce shortness of breath, and improve the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Choice C rationale:“I will follow a diet high in calories and protein.” This is the correct answer. Emphysema can increase the body’s energy expenditure due to the effort required for breathing. A diet high in calories and protein helps maintain muscle mass and provides the necessary energy to support respiratory function.
Choice D rationale:“I will lie on my stomach to practice abdominal breathing every day.” This statement is not recommended for emphysema management. While abdominal or diaphragmatic breathing can be beneficial, lying on the stomach is not a typical position for practicing this technique. It is usually done while sitting or lying on the back.
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