A nurse is reviewing the ABG values of a client who has pneumonia. Which of the following findings indicates the client is developing respiratory acidosis?
PaO2 85 mmHg
pH 7.47
HCO3 25 mEq/L
PaCO2 55 mmHg
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: PaO2 85 mmHg is within the normal range of 80 to 100 mmHg and does not indicate any hypoxemia or oxygen deficiency.
Choice B reason: pH 7.47 is within the normal range of 7.35 to 7.45 and does not indicate any acid-base imbalance.
Choice C reason: HCO3 25 mEq/L is within the normal range of 22 to 26 mEq/L and does not indicate any metabolic disturbance.
Choice D reason: PaCO2 55 mmHg is above the normal range of 35 to 45 mmHg and indicates respiratory acidosis, which is a condition where the lungs cannot eliminate enough carbon dioxide and the blood becomes too acidic. This can be caused by pneumonia, which can impair gas exchange and ventilation.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Nonpalpable area of redness, less than 5 mm (0.2 in) in diameter is a negative result for the tuberculin skin test, which means that the client does not have tuberculosis infection or exposure.
Choice B reason: Palpable area of induration, greater than 10 mm (0.4 in) in diameter is a positive result for the tuberculin skin test, which means that the client has tuberculosis infection or exposure and needs further testing, such as chest x-ray or sputum culture, to confirm the diagnosis and rule out active disease.
Choice C reason: Area of ecchymosis, greater than 12 mm (0.5 in) in diameter is not a relevant finding for the tuberculin skin test, as it indicates bruising or bleeding under the skin that may be caused by trauma or coagulation disorder.
Choice D reason: Tenderness at the injection site is not a relevant finding for the tuberculin skin test, as it indicates inflammation or irritation of the skin that may be caused by needle insertion or allergic reaction.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Maintaining the client on bed rest is not an appropriate action, as it can increase the risk of thromboembolism, infection, or atelectasis after surgery. The nurse should encourage early ambulation and exercise as tolerated by the client.
Choice B reason: Decreasing the client's fluid intake is not an appropriate action, as it can cause dehydration, constipation, or impaired wound healing after surgery. The nurse should encourage adequate hydration and nutrition to promote recovery and drainage.
Choice C reason: Applying cold compresses to the site is not an appropriate action, as it can cause vasoconstriction, inflammation, or pain at the site. The nurse should apply warm compresses to the site to facilitate drainage and reduce swelling.
Choice D reason: Placing the right leg in a dependent position is an appropriate action, as it can promote gravity-assisted drainage from the site and prevent fluid accumulation or infection. The nurse should place the drain below the level of the wound and secure it to prevent dislodgment or tension.

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