A nurse is caring for a patient who has respiratory acidosis. Which of the following pH levels should the nurse expect?
pH 7.39
pH 7.31
pH 7.48
pH 7.50
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: A pH of 7.39 is near the lower end of the normal range (7.35-7.45) and would not typically indicate respiratory acidosis.
Choice B reason: A pH of 7.31 is below the normal range, indicating an acidic environment, which is consistent with respiratory acidosis.
Choice C reason: A pH of 7.48 is above the normal range, indicating a more alkaline environment, which would suggest respiratory alkalosis, not acidosis.
Choice D reason: A pH of 7.50 is also above the normal range and would indicate alkalosis rather than acidosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Performing deep breathing exercises every 2 hours helps prevent postoperative complications such as pneumonia and atelectasis.
Choice B reason: While chest movement is part of breathing, the instruction is incomplete and should emphasize diaphragmatic breathing rather than shoulder movement.
Choice C reason: Taking a deep breath before coughing helps to increase the effectiveness of the cough, which can clear secretions from the lungs.
Choice D reason: Sitting up straight before beginning coughing exercises helps to ensure maximum lung expansion and effectiveness of the cough.
Choice E reason: Using a pillow to support the surgical area when coughing can help reduce pain and protect the incision site, making the cough more effective.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Metabolic alkalosis is indicated by a high pH and a high HCO3 level. In this case, the pH is 7.5, which is above the normal range of 7.35-7.45, and the HCO3 is 32 mEq/L, which is above the normal range of 22-26 mEq/L.
Choice B reason: Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a high CO2 level and a low pH, which is not the case here as the CO2 is normal and the pH is high.
Choice C reason: Respiratory alkalosis typically presents with a low CO2 level and a high pH. Since the CO2 is normal, this condition does not fit the patient's ABG results.
Choice D reason: Metabolic acidosis would present with a low pH and a low HCO3 level. Given that both the pH and HCO3 are high, metabolic acidosis is not the correct diagnosis.
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