A nurse is caring for a client with an opioid overdose. The nurse should identify the client is at risk for which acid-base imbalance?

Choice A reason: Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decrease in blood pH due to an accumulation of acids or a loss of bicarbonate. It can result from conditions such as diabetic ketoacidosis, renal failure, or severe diarrhea. However, it is not typically associated with opioid overdose. Opioid overdose primarily affects the respiratory system, leading to hypoventilation and respiratory acidosis.

Choice B reason: Respiratory acidosis occurs when there is an accumulation of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood due to hypoventilation. Opioid overdose depresses the central nervous system, leading to decreased respiratory rate and depth, which causes CO2 retention. This results in a decrease in blood pH, leading to respiratory acidosis. Symptoms may include confusion, lethargy, and shortness of breath.

Choice C reason: Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a decrease in blood CO2 levels due to hyperventilation. It can occur in conditions such as anxiety, fever, or high altitude. Opioid overdose, however, causes hypoventilation rather than hyperventilation, making respiratory alkalosis an unlikely outcome.

Choice D reason: Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an increase in blood pH due to an accumulation of bicarbonate or a loss of acids. It can result from conditions such as prolonged vomiting, diuretic use, or excessive bicarbonate intake. Opioid overdose does not typically lead to metabolic alkalosis. The primary concern with opioid overdose is respiratory depression and the resulting respiratory acidosis.

Choice A Reason:

Keep the drainage system below the level of the client’s chest at all times is correct. This measure ensures that gravity assists in the drainage of air and fluid from the pleural space, preventing backflow into the chest cavity. Keeping the drainage system below chest level maintains the negative pressure needed for effective drainage.

Choice B Reason:

Clamp the chest tube prior to transferring the client to a wheelchair is incorrect. Clamping the chest tube can lead to a buildup of air or fluid in the pleural space, potentially causing a tension pneumothorax. The chest tube should remain unclamped to allow continuous drainage.

Choice C Reason:

Empty the collection chamber prior to transport is incorrect. While it is important to monitor and manage the drainage, emptying the collection chamber is not necessary before transport. The focus should be on maintaining the integrity and function of the drainage system.

Choice D Reason:

Disconnect the chest tube from the drainage system during transport is incorrect. Disconnecting the chest tube can lead to a loss of the negative pressure system, resulting in potential complications such as pneumothorax. The chest tube should remain connected to ensure continuous drainage and maintain the negative pressure.