A nurse is reviewing the arterial blood gas (ABG) result for a client diagnosed with progressive chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The nurse should expect which of the following ABG findings for a client diagnosed with progressive COPD?
pH 7.55, PaCO2 30 mm Hg, PaO2 80 mm Hg, HCO3 24 mEq/L
pH 7.30, PaCO2 60 mm Hg, PaO2 70 mm Hg, HCO3 30 mEq/L
pH 7.40, PaCO2 40 mm Hg, PaO2 94 mm Hg, HCO3 22 mEq/L
pH 7.38, PaCO2 45 mm Hg, PaO2 88 mm Hg, HCO3 26 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is B
A. pH 7.55, PaCO2 30 mm Hg, PaO2 80 mm Hg, HCO3 24 mEq/L: This ABG finding indicates respiratory alkalosis, as evidenced by the elevated pH and decreased PaCO2. In progressive COPD, clients typically retain carbon dioxide rather than blow it off, so this finding would not be expected in a patient with chronic respiratory issues.
B. pH 7.30, PaCO2 60 mm Hg, PaO2 70 mm Hg, HCO3 30 mEq/L: This is the most consistent finding for a client with progressive COPD. The low pH indicates acidosis, and the elevated PaCO2 suggests respiratory acidosis due to carbon dioxide retention, a common problem in COPD. The elevated HCO3 indicates a compensatory metabolic response, as the body attempts to retain bicarbonate to buffer the acidosis.
C. pH 7.40, PaCO2 40 mm Hg, PaO2 94 mm Hg, HCO3 22 mEq/L: These values indicate a normal ABG, which would not be expected in a client with progressive COPD. Patients with chronic lung disease typically present with acid-base imbalances due to respiratory failure, so this finding suggests the client is not exhibiting the expected complications of COPD.
D. pH 7.38, PaCO2 45 mm Hg, PaO2 88 mm Hg, HCO3 26 mEq/L: Although these findings show mild acidosis, the PaCO2 is within normal limits, indicating that this patient may not be experiencing significant respiratory failure. In advanced COPD, one would expect to see a higher PaCO2 and more pronounced acidosis, making this option less characteristic of a patient with progressive COPD compared to option B.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
A. The student's asthma is not well controlled: Being in the yellow zone indicates that the student's asthma is not well controlled and that their peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) is lower than usual. This is a crucial point for the nurse to recognize, as it suggests that the student may need to adjust their management plan to prevent an exacerbation.
B. The nurse should obtain a second expiratory flow rate: While it can be helpful to reassess peak flow rates, it is not always necessary unless there is a concern about the accuracy of the initial measurement. The initial yellow zone result provides sufficient information for the nurse to take appropriate action regarding the student's asthma management.
C. The student needs to go to the hospital: Being in the yellow zone does not automatically require hospitalization. The yellow zone typically indicates that the student is experiencing some worsening of asthma symptoms but can often be managed at home with appropriate interventions. Hospitalization is usually reserved for the red zone, where severe symptoms or a significant decrease in peak flow occurs.
D. The student should use his quick-relief inhaler: This is an appropriate action for a student in the yellow zone. The yellow zone often indicates the need for the use of a quick-relief inhaler to alleviate symptoms and improve airflow. The nurse should advise the student to use their inhaler as per their asthma action plan.
E. The student's peak flow is 50% to 80% of his best peak flow: This statement accurately describes the yellow zone, where the peak flow is between 50% and 80% of the student's personal best. This information is essential for determining the appropriate response to the current asthma status and guides the nurse's actions.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Prepare to assist with intubation of the client: This action should be prioritized for a client diagnosed with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). ARDS can lead to significant respiratory distress and hypoxemia, requiring advanced airway management. Assisting with intubation ensures that the client receives adequate ventilation and oxygenation, which is critical in managing ARDS effectively. Immediate preparation for intubation is essential to prevent further deterioration of the client’s respiratory status.
B. Place a tracheostomy tray at the client's bedside: While having a tracheostomy tray available can be important in cases of prolonged respiratory failure, this action is not the immediate priority. The focus should be on ensuring proper airway management and oxygenation first. A tracheostomy is typically considered if the client requires long-term ventilation, but initial intervention for ARDS often involves intubation.
C. Administer IV prophylaxis for thromboembolism: While providing prophylaxis for thromboembolism is important in the overall management of patients at risk, especially in those with limited mobility, it is not the first priority in an acute situation. The immediate need is to address the client’s respiratory distress and ensure proper ventilation.
D. Administer IV prophylaxis for stress ulcers: Providing prophylaxis for stress ulcers is also a relevant consideration, particularly in critically ill patients. However, it is not an urgent action compared to securing the airway and ensuring effective oxygenation. Addressing respiratory failure and maintaining airway patency should take precedence in the acute management of ARDS.
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