A nurse is caring for multiple clients on a medical-surgical unit. Which client should the nurse identify as being at greatest risk for respiratory alkalosis?
chest wall trauma with broken ribs
excessive mechanical ventilation
renal insufficiency
overuse of antacids
The Correct Answer is B
Rationale:
A. Chest wall trauma with broken ribs can cause hypoventilation due to pain, potentially leading to respiratory acidosis, not alkalosis.
B. Excessive mechanical ventilation can lead to hyperventilation, which causes too much CO₂ to be expelled. This decreases the carbonic acid concentration in the blood, resulting in respiratory alkalosis.
C. Renal insufficiency primarily contributes to metabolic acidosis due to poor acid excretion.
D. Overuse of antacids is associated with metabolic alkalosis due to increased bicarbonate intake, not respiratory alkalosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Introducing a regular diet is important but not the immediate priority in severe diarrhea.
B. Rehydration is the most critical initial step to prevent or treat dehydration and shock.
C. Maintaining fluid therapy is important after rehydration is initiated but not the first action.
D. Assessing fluid balance is necessary but secondary to initiating rehydration.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Sodium bicarbonate may be used to correct acidosis, but oxygenation must be addressed first to prevent further deterioration.
B. The first priority is to improve oxygenation. Administering oxygen by mask or nasal cannula is the most immediate and effective way to increase PaO₂ and support respiratory function.
C. A paper bag is used for respiratory alkalosis, not acidosis—it would worsen hypoxemia.
D. Glucose and insulin are used for hyperkalemia, which is not the current priority.
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.