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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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Monitor the client for an elevated RBC count.: While an elevated white blood cell count (WBC) is more indicative of appendicitis, an elevated RBC count is not typically used to diagnose appendicitis.

B. Instruct the client to not eat food or drink liquids.: This is important as it prepares the client for a potential surgical procedure. If the appendix is inflamed and surgery is necessary, the client should not eat or drink to prevent complications related to anesthesia and surgery.

C. Administer an enema to the client.: Administering an enema is not recommended as it can increase the risk of perforation of the appendix, which is a serious complication.

D. Maintain the client in a supine position.: While maintaining a supine position may be necessary, it is not as critical as ensuring the client remains NPO (nil per os) in preparation for possible surgery. The position is less of a priority compared to dietary restrictions in this scenario.

A. Decreased magnesium level B. Decreased total calcium level C. Elevated phosphate level D. Elevated sodium level

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A) Decreased magnesium level: Primary aldosteronism typically affects sodium and potassium balance, but it is less likely to cause significant changes in magnesium levels. Therefore, a decreased magnesium level is not the expected electrolyte imbalance in this condition.

B) Decreased total calcium level: Primary aldosteronism does not primarily affect calcium metabolism. While calcium levels could be influenced indirectly, they are not a primary concern in this disorder. Hence, a decreased total calcium level is not expected.

C) Elevated phosphate level: Phosphate levels are generally not directly influenced by aldosterone. Elevated phosphate levels might be seen in other conditions, but they are not characteristic of primary aldosteronism.

D) Elevated sodium level: Primary aldosteronism leads to excess production of aldosterone, which promotes sodium retention by the kidneys. This retention causes elevated sodium levels, resulting in hypernatremia, and contributes to symptoms like frequent urination due to the body's attempt to excrete excess sodium through increased urine production.

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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

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a client who has suspected appendicitis. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A nurse is reviewing the laboratory report of an older adult client who has primary aldosteronism and reports needing to urinate three to four times during the night. Which of the following electrolyte imbalances should the nurse expect?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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