A nurse is reviewing the ABG values of a client who has chronic bronchitis and reports dyspnea with minimal exertion. Which of the following acid- base imbalances should the nurse suspect?

Metabolic acidosis

Respiratory alkalosis

Respiratory acidosis

Metabolic alkalosis

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Answer: C. Respiratory acidosis

Rationale:

A) Metabolic acidosis: This occurs when there is an excess of acid in the body or a loss of bicarbonate, often due to conditions such as renal failure or severe diarrhea. In chronic bronchitis, the primary issue is related to respiratory function rather than metabolic disturbances.

B) Respiratory alkalosis: This condition results from hyperventilation, leading to excessive loss of carbon dioxide. It is unlikely in a client with chronic bronchitis, who typically experiences difficulty in exhaling fully rather than hyperventilating.

C) Respiratory acidosis: In chronic bronchitis, airflow obstruction and reduced gas exchange can lead to carbon dioxide retention, resulting in respiratory acidosis. Symptoms like dyspnea and increased work of breathing support this imbalance, as the body is unable to adequately expel carbon dioxide.

D) Metabolic alkalosis: This imbalance results from excessive bicarbonate or loss of hydrogen ions, often related to prolonged vomiting or diuretics. It is not characteristic of chronic bronchitis, where the primary concern is respiratory function rather than metabolic processes.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Insert the IV catheter:

Inserting an IV catheter is necessary to administer IV fluids and medications. However, it is not the most immediate need. The priority is to address the client's oxygenation status first to stabilize them before proceeding with other interventions.

B. Obtain a blood sample:

Obtaining a blood sample for cardiac enzyme levels is important to diagnose a myocardial infarction. Nevertheless, this step should be taken after ensuring the client is receiving adequate oxygen, as hypoxia needs to be addressed immediately.

C. Attach the leads for a 12-lead ECG:

Attaching the leads for a 12-lead ECG is crucial for diagnosing the client's cardiac condition. However, it should be done after initiating oxygen therapy, as improving the client's oxygenation status is more urgent and can help stabilize the client for further diagnostic procedures.

D. Initiate oxygen therapy:

Initiating oxygen therapy is the most critical first action. The client is experiencing severe chest pain, shortness of breath, and signs of cyanosis, indicating that their oxygen levels are insufficient. Providing oxygen at 4 L/min via nasal cannula will help alleviate hypoxia, improve the client's condition, and provide time for further diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.

A. Helping the client into the shower B. Ambulating the client in the hallway C. Measuring vital signs D. Removing the sternal dressing

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Helping the client into the shower: This task can be safely delegated to an assistive personnel (AP). The AP can help the client with activities of daily living such as showering, as long as the client is stable and does not require close monitoring.

B. Ambulating the client in the hallway: This task can also be delegated to an AP. Assisting with ambulation is within the scope of practice for an AP, provided the client is stable and there are no specific concerns that require a nurse’s assessment.

C. Measuring vital signs: While measuring vital signs is a critical task, it can be delegated to an AP. The AP can be trained to accurately measure and report vital signs. However, the nurse should review and interpret the results.

D. Removing the sternal dressing: This is the correct answer. Removing a sternal dressing after cardiac surgery is a complex task that requires a nurse’s expertise2. The nurse needs to assess the surgical site for signs of infection or complications, which is beyond the scope of practice for an AP. Therefore, this task should not be delegated and should be performed by the nurse herself

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A nurse is reviewing the ABG values of a client who has chronic bronchitis and reports dyspnea with minimal exertion. Which of the following acid- base imbalances should the nurse suspect?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A nurse is delegating tasks for an assistive personnel (AP) to perform for a client who is 1-day postoperative following cardiac surgery. Which of the following tasks should the nurse perform herself?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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