A nurse is reviewing laboratory results of a client. The client's ABG results are as follows: pH 7.2, HCO, 26 mEq/L, PaCO2 52 mm Hg. Which of the following acid-base imbalances should the nurse identify the client is experiencing?
Metabolic acidosis
Metabolic alkalosis
Respiratory alkalosis
Respiratory acidosis
The Correct Answer is D
A) Metabolic acidosis: In metabolic acidosis, you would expect a low pH (acidosis) with a low bicarbonate (HCO3-) level. However, the given bicarbonate level is within the normal range (22-26 mEq/L), which indicates the acidosis is not metabolic in origin.
B) Metabolic alkalosis: Metabolic alkalosis would present with a high pH (alkalosis) and an elevated bicarbonate (HCO3-) level. The pH in this case is low, indicating acidosis, and the bicarbonate level is normal, ruling out metabolic alkalosis.
C) Respiratory alkalosis: In respiratory alkalosis, you would see a high pH (alkalosis) and a low PaCO2 due to hyperventilation. The given pH is low, indicating acidosis, and the PaCO2 is elevated, which is inconsistent with respiratory alkalosis.
D) Respiratory acidosis: Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a low pH (acidosis) and an elevated PaCO2 due to hypoventilation or impaired gas exchange. The client's ABG results show a low pH (7.2), a normal bicarbonate level (26 mEq/L), and an elevated PaCO2 (52 mm Hg), indicating the client is experiencing respiratory acidosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Administer a dose of subcutaneous epinephrine.: The swelling of the lips and tongue is indicative of angioedema, a serious adverse reaction to captopril. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for severe allergic reactions or angioedema to quickly counteract the swelling and prevent airway obstruction.
B. Advise the client not to consume grapefruit products.: Grapefruit can interact with some medications, but it is not related to the management of angioedema. This action would be more relevant for drugs metabolized by CYP3A4, not specifically for angioedema.
C. Place warm compresses on both sides of the client's face.: Warm compresses are not appropriate for angioedema and may not address the underlying issue. This action does not manage the immediate, potentially life-threatening reaction caused by captopril.
D. Swab the client's oral mucosa with nystatin suspension.: Nystatin is used for fungal infections of the oral mucosa, not for angioedema. This action does not address the adverse reaction related to captopril.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Impaired coordination:
Impaired coordination is a common manifestation of hypothermia. As the body temperature drops, the nervous system is affected, leading to difficulties in motor control and coordination. This symptom is indicative of the body's struggle to maintain normal physiological functions in response to the cold.
B) Sensitivity to light:
Sensitivity to light is not typically associated with hypothermia. This symptom is more commonly related to conditions affecting the eyes or the central nervous system, such as migraines or meningitis.
C) Increased respiratory rate:
Hypothermia generally leads to a decreased respiratory rate as the body's metabolic processes slow down. An increased respiratory rate is not a common symptom and may indicate another underlying condition or a compensatory mechanism for another issue.
D) Hypertension:
Hypertension is not a typical manifestation of hypothermia. In fact, as hypothermia progresses, the body's blood pressure often decreases due to reduced cardiac output and peripheral vasoconstriction.
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