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 Kussmaul respirations are a sign of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which is a complication of type 1 diabetes mellitus that occurs when the blood glucose is too high, not too low. Kussmaul respirations are deep and rapid breathing that help the body eliminate excess carbon dioxide and acid.
Choice B reason: This is the correct finding, because diaphoresis is a sign of hypoglycemia, which is a condition that occurs when the blood glucose is too low. Diaphoresis is excessive sweating that results from the activation of the sympathetic nervous system and the release of epinephrine, which stimulate the body to increase the blood glucose level.
Choice C reason: This is an incorrect finding, because decreased skin turgor is a sign of dehydration, which is a complication of type 1 diabetes mellitus that occurs when the blood glucose is too high, not too low. Decreased skin turgor is a loss of elasticity and firmness of the skin that results from the loss of fluid and electrolytes through the urine and the skin.
Choice D reason: This is an incorrect finding, because ketonuria is a sign of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which is a complication of type 1 diabetes mellitus that occurs when the blood glucose is too high, not too low. Ketonuria is the presence of ketones in the urine, which are acidic substances that are produced when the body breaks down fat for energy due to the lack of insulin.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is a correct statement, because checking the heart rate each day can help monitor the function and effectiveness of the pacemaker, and detect any signs of malfunction, such as bradycardia, tachycardia, or irregular rhythm.
Choice B reason: This is an incorrect statement, because the client still needs to take the antihypertensive medications as prescribed, even with a pacemaker. The pacemaker regulates the heart rate, but does not control the blood pressure, which can be affected by other factors, such as stress, diet, or kidney function.
Choice C reason: This is an incorrect statement, because the client should avoid stretching the arms above the head for the first few weeks after the pacemaker insertion, as it can cause dislodgment or damage to the pacemaker leads. The client should limit the arm movements and activities until the incision site heals and the provider approves.
Choice D reason: This is an incorrect statement, because the client can stand in front of a microwave oven without any risk, as long as the oven is in good working condition and does not leak radiation. The modern microwave ovens and pacemakers are designed to prevent any interference or damage. However, the client should avoid close contact with other sources of electromagnetic fields, such as metal detectors, cell phones, or MRI machines.
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