A nurse is reviewing a client's laboratory report. The client's ABG levels are pH 7.5, PaCO2 32 mm Hg, and HCO3 24 mEq/L. The nurse should determine that the client has which of the following acid-base imbalances?
Respiratory alkalosis
Metabolic acidosis
Respiratory acidosis
Metabolic alkalosis
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: This is the correct imbalance, because respiratory alkalosis is a condition that occurs when the blood pH is high, the PaCO2 is low, and the HCO3 is normal or low. Respiratory alkalosis is caused by hyperventilation, which can result from anxiety, fever, pain, or mechanical ventilation.
Choice B reason: This is an incorrect imbalance, because metabolic acidosis is a condition that occurs when the blood pH is low, the PaCO2 is normal or low, and the HCO3 is low. Metabolic acidosis is caused by the accumulation of acids in the blood, which can result from diabetic ketoacidosis, renal failure, or lactic acidosis.
Choice C reason: This is an incorrect imbalance, because respiratory acidosis is a condition that occurs when the blood pH is low, the PaCO2 is high, and the HCO3 is normal or high. Respiratory acidosis is caused by hypoventilation, which can result from airway obstruction, chest injury, or narcotic overdose.
Choice D reason: This is an incorrect imbalance, because metabolic alkalosis is a condition that occurs when the blood pH is high, the PaCO2 is normal or high, and the HCO3 is high. Metabolic alkalosis is caused by the loss of acids from the blood, which can result from vomiting, gastric suction, or diuretic therapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is an incorrect finding, because elevated blood pressure is not a sign of hypoparathyroidism, which is a condition that occurs when the parathyroid glands produce insufficient parathyroid hormone (PTH). PTH regulates the calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood and bones. Elevated blood pressure can be a sign of hyperparathyroidism, which is the opposite condition.
Choice B reason: This is the correct finding, because involuntary muscle spasms are a sign of hypoparathyroidism, which causes hypocalcemia, or low blood calcium levels. Hypocalcemia can cause neuromuscular irritability and tetany, which are manifested by muscle spasms, twitching, cramps, or seizures.
Choice C reason: This is an incorrect finding, because cold intolerance is not a sign of hypoparathyroidism, but a sign of hypothyroidism, which is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland produces insufficient thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormone regulates the metabolism and body temperature. Cold intolerance can also be a sign of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, which is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and destruction of the thyroid gland.
Choice D reason: This is an incorrect finding, because weight loss is not a sign of hypoparathyroidism, but a sign of hyperthyroidism, which is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormone increases the metabolism and energy expenditure. Weight loss can also be a sign of Graves' disease, which is an autoimmune disease that causes overstimulation and enlargement of the thyroid gland.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is the correct information, because pursed-lip breathing can help improve gas exchange by creating positive pressure in the airways, preventing air trapping and alveolar collapse, and increasing the exhalation time.
Choice B reason: This is an incorrect information, because limiting fluid intake to 1,500 ml per day can cause dehydration and thickening of the respiratory secretions, which can impair gas exchange and increase the risk of infection.
Choice C reason: This is an incorrect information, because practicing chest breathing each day can worsen gas exchange by increasing the use of accessory muscles, decreasing the diaphragmatic excursion, and reducing the lung expansion.
Choice D reason: This is an incorrect information, because wearing home oxygen to maintain an SpO2 of at least 94% can be harmful for a client who has emphysema, as it can suppress the hypoxic drive and cause carbon dioxide retention, which can lead to respiratory acidosis and coma. The client who has emphysema should wear home oxygen to maintain an SpO2 of 88% to 92%, or as prescribed by the provider.
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