A nurse is providing care for a client with emphysema, The nurse reviews the results of the arterial blood gases and determines the client is experiencing respiratory acidosis. The nurse would expect to find which of the following on the laboratory results?
pH 7.35, pCO2 42 mmHg
pH 7.50, pCO2 28 mmHg
pH 7.40, pCO2 43mmHg
pH 7.25. pCO2 55 mmHg
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. A pH of 7.35 and pCO₂ of 42 mmHg are both within normal limits, indicating no acidosis.
B. A pH of 7.50 and pCO₂ of 28 mmHg indicate respiratory alkalosis, not acidosis.
C. A pH of 7.40 and pCO₂ of 43 mmHg are normal values, not consistent with acidosis.
D. A pH of 7.25 is acidic, and a pCO₂ of 55 mmHg is elevated, indicating respiratory acidosis, which is expected in a client with emphysema due to CO₂ retention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. The renal system compensates for respiratory acidosis by retaining bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻) and excreting hydrogen ions to help normalize blood pH.
B. The endocrine system regulates hormones, but it is not involved in acid-base compensation.
C. The respiratory system is the cause of the acidosis in this case and therefore cannot compensate.
D. The gastrointestinal system has a minor role in maintaining acid-base balance, but it is not the primary compensatory system for respiratory imbalances.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Urinary catheters drain urine but do not typically cause significant electrolyte loss leading to hypokalemia.
B. Chest tubes remove air, blood, or fluid from the pleural space but do not significantly affect potassium levels.
C. NG (nasogastric) tubes to suction can lead to hypokalemia because they remove gastric contents, which include potassium and other electrolytes. Prolonged suctioning can cause significant electrolyte imbalances.
D. Nephrostomy tubes drain urine directly from the kidney and do not typically lead to potassium depletion unless there is a high-output or concurrent renal dysfunction.
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