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
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Request return instructions in the client's own words:
Asking the client to repeat instructions in their own words is an effective strategy for ensuring understanding, especially for individuals with low health literacy. This technique, known as the "teach-back" method, allows the nurse to assess the client’s comprehension and clarify any misunderstandings.
B) Provide brochures that reflect a seventh-grade reading level:
While providing materials at a lower reading level can be helpful, it may not be sufficient for individuals with very low health literacy. It is essential to use multiple strategies, including verbal communication and interactive methods, to ensure understanding.
C) Limit teaching materials to written information:
Relying solely on written information is not advisable for clients with low health literacy. Visual aids, demonstrations, and verbal explanations should be included to enhance comprehension and retention of information.
D) Avoid repetition of information within each session:
Repetition is actually beneficial for clients with low health literacy. Repeating key information helps reinforce learning and ensures that the client retains the essential points discussed during the teaching sessions.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Reports intolerance to heat: Intolerance to heat is more commonly associated with conditions like hyperthyroidism rather than iron-deficiency anemia. Individuals with iron-deficiency anemia often experience fatigue and cold intolerance due to decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.
B) Develops bradycardia after eating: Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is not typically associated with iron-deficiency anemia. Anemia usually causes an increased heart rate (tachycardia) as the body tries to compensate for reduced oxygen delivery.
C) Has a friction rub on auscultation: A friction rub is a sound heard on auscultation associated with pericarditis, an inflammation of the pericardium, and is not a typical finding in iron-deficiency anemia. Anemia primarily affects the blood and does not usually cause inflammation of the heart lining.
D) Displays dyspnea while walking: Dyspnea, or shortness of breath, is a common symptom of iron-deficiency anemia, particularly with exertion. This occurs because the reduced hemoglobin levels result in decreased oxygen delivery to tissues, making physical activities more challenging and causing breathlessness.
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