A nurse is evaluating a patient who has respiratory alkalosis.
What symptoms should the nurse anticipate?

The correct answer is Choice C.

Choice A rationale: Applying four drops of developing solution to each stool specimen is incorrect. Typically, the test requires two drops of solution. Following manufacturer instructions ensures accurate results and prevents unnecessary waste or inaccurate readings.

Choice B rationale: Using toilet paper to transfer the stool specimen is improper. Stool should be collected using the provided applicator stick to avoid contamination, ensuring the accuracy of the fecal occult blood test.

Choice C rationale: Waiting 30 seconds after applying the developing solution allows the chemical reaction to complete, ensuring accurate detection of any occult blood present in the stool sample.

Choice D rationale: Collecting two stool specimens from the same area increases the risk of missing occult blood present in different parts of the stool. Sampling from multiple areas enhances test accuracy and ensures comprehensive results.

Choice A rationale:

Administering insulin is a crucial step in managing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), as insulin deficiency is a primary cause of DKA12. However, it is not the first action to take when a patient presents with both DKA and hypoxia. While insulin helps to reduce blood glucose levels and suppress the production of ketones, it does not address the immediate life-threatening condition of hypoxia.

Choice B rationale:

Hypoxia, or low levels of oxygen in the body, is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Supplemental oxygen can help increase the oxygen levels in the patient’s blood, thereby alleviating hypoxia. In the context of a patient with DKA and hypoxia, providing supplemental oxygen would be the first action to take to stabilize the patient’s condition before addressing the DKA12.

Choice C rationale:

Checking the patient’s glucose level is an important part of managing DKA, as hyperglycemia is a key feature of this condition. However, it is not the first action to take in this scenario. While monitoring glucose levels can guide the administration of insulin and other treatments for DKA, it does not address the immediate threat posed by hypoxia.

Choice D rationale:

Administering intravenous fluids is another important step in managing DKA12. Dehydration is a common complication of DKA due to excessive urination caused by high blood sugar levels. However, similar to Choices A and C, while it is an important part of treatment, it is not the first action to take when a patient presents with both DKA and hypoxia.