A nurse is caring for a client with the following Arterial Blood Gases (ABG) pH 7.48, PaCO2 53, and HCO3 31. How would these be interpreted?
Respiratory alkalosis
Partially Compensated Metabolic Alkalosis
Metabolic Acidosis
Fully Compensated Respiratory Acidosis
The Correct Answer is B
A. Respiratory Alkalosis: Would have low PaCO2 (<35 mmHg), not high.
B. Partially Compensated Metabolic Alkalosis: The pH is high (alkalosis), and the HCO3 is elevated, which indicates metabolic alkalosis. The PaCO2 is high, meaning the lungs are attempting to compensate by retaining CO₂ to lower the pH. Because the pH is still abnormal, this is partial compensation.
C. Metabolic Acidosis: Would have low pH and low HCO3 (<22 mEq/L).
D. Fully Compensated Respiratory Acidosis: The primary problem is metabolic, not respiratory.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Cardiac arrest: Cardiac arrest is a complication of severe hypothermia, not a risk factor.
B. Falling through the ice: Major risk factor for accidental hypothermia due to immersion in cold water.
C. Head trauma: Impaired thermoregulation in the brainstem can cause hypothermia.
D. Drug use: Certain drugs (e.g., alcohol, sedatives) impair the body’s ability to regulate temperature, increasing hypothermia risk.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. ST depression: ST depression is associated with hypokalemia or ischemia.
B. Tall peaked T waves: Hyperkalemia (K+ > 5.0 mEq/L) causes tall, peaked T waves due to abnormal repolarization. Severe hyperkalemia (>6.5 mEq/L) can lead to cardiac arrest.
C. Prolonged ST segment: Not a characteristic of hyperkalemia.
D. Prominent U wave: A U wave is seen in hypokalemia, not hyperkalemia.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
