A nurse is reviewing a client's laboratory results. The client's ABGS are as follows: pH 7.6, HCO3 24 mEq/L, PaCO2 30 mm Hg, PaO2 90 mm Hg. Which of the following acid-base imbalances should the nurse identify the client is experiencing?

Metabolic alkalosis

Respiratory acidosis

Respiratory alkalosis

Metabolic acidosis

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A) Metabolic alkalosis: Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and elevated bicarbonate (HCO3). In this scenario, the pH is elevated at 7.6, which supports alkalosis, but the HCO3 level is normal at 24 mEq/L. The PaCO2 is slightly low, which is not typical for metabolic alkalosis, as it would usually show an elevated HCO3 with a compensatory respiratory alkalosis.

B) Respiratory acidosis: Respiratory acidosis would present with a low pH and an elevated PaCO2. In this case, the pH is high at 7.6, indicating alkalosis, and the PaCO2 is also low at 30 mm Hg, which is inconsistent with respiratory acidosis.

C) Respiratory alkalosis: Respiratory alkalosis is indicated by a high pH with a low PaCO2. Here, the pH is elevated at 7.6, and the PaCO2 is decreased at 30 mm Hg, which fits the profile of respiratory alkalosis. The normal HCO3 level suggests that the bicarbonate is not compensating, supporting a primary respiratory alkalosis.

D) Metabolic acidosis: Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH and a low HCO3. In this scenario, the pH is elevated at 7.6, and the HCO3 level is normal at 24 mEq/L, which does not align with metabolic acidosis. The PaCO2 is also low, which is not typical for metabolic acidosis, as it would usually have a normal or high PaCO2.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A) Place the child in a tub bath of tepid water: While tepid water can help in some situations of hyperthermia, it is not suitable for hypothermia. A more controlled and gradual rewarming method is necessary to prevent further complications such as rewarming shock.

B) Cover the child's head with a hat: Covering the child's head with a hat is an important step in rewarming because a significant amount of body heat is lost through the head. This helps in retaining body heat and stabilizing the child’s temperature.

C) Administer acetaminophen every 4 hr: Acetaminophen is typically used for reducing fever and managing pain. It is not indicated for treating hypothermia, as it does not aid in rewarming the body or addressing the underlying hypothermic condition.

D) Obtain a specimen for blood cultures: While obtaining blood cultures might be necessary if there is a suspicion of infection, it is not a primary intervention for treating hypothermia. Immediate focus should be on rewarming and stabilizing the child.

A. Drowsiness B. Diminished patellar reflexes C. Generalized muscle weakness D. Bradycardia

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A) Drowsiness: While drowsiness can be a symptom of elevated magnesium levels, it is not the most critical finding to report immediately. Drowsiness can be observed with other conditions as well.

B) Diminished patellar reflexes: This can be indicative of hypermagnesemia, but it is a less immediate concern compared to other symptoms. Monitoring reflexes is important, but not the priority.

C) Generalized muscle weakness: Muscle weakness is a common symptom of elevated magnesium levels, but it is less urgent compared to cardiac issues. Although important, it does not pose an immediate risk like bradycardia.

D) Bradycardia: Elevated magnesium levels can cause serious cardiac complications, including bradycardia. This can be life-threatening and requires prompt attention to prevent severe outcomes, making it the priority to report to the provider.

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A nurse is reviewing a client's laboratory results. The client's ABGS are as follows: pH 7.6, HCO3 24 mEq/L, PaCO2 30 mm Hg, PaO2 90 mm Hg. Which of the following acid-base imbalances should the nurse identify the client is experiencing?

Nursing Test Bank

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