A nurse is reviewing the arterial blood gas (ABG) results of a patient. The patient's ABGs are: pH 7.5
CO2 40 mm Hg HCO3 32 mEq/L
Which of the following acid-base conditions should the nurse identify the patient is experiencing?
Metabolic alkalosis
Respiratory acidosis
Respiratory alkalosis
Metabolic acidosis
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Metabolic alkalosis is indicated by a high pH and a high HCO3 level. In this case, the pH is 7.5, which is above the normal range of 7.35-7.45, and the HCO3 is 32 mEq/L, which is above the normal range of 22-26 mEq/L.
Choice B reason: Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a high CO2 level and a low pH, which is not the case here as the CO2 is normal and the pH is high.
Choice C reason: Respiratory alkalosis typically presents with a low CO2 level and a high pH. Since the CO2 is normal, this condition does not fit the patient's ABG results.
Choice D reason: Metabolic acidosis would present with a low pH and a low HCO3 level. Given that both the pH and HCO3 are high, metabolic acidosis is not the correct diagnosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Obstructive sleep apnea can increase the risk of postoperative complications due to potential breathing problems and the effects of anesthesia.
Choice B reason: A glucose level of 75 mg/dL is within the normal fasting range (70-99 mg/dL) and does not typically place a patient at increased risk for postoperative complications.
Choice C reason: A BMI of 24 falls within the normal weight range (18.5-24.9) and is not considered a risk factor for postoperative complications.
Choice D reason: While increased anxiety can affect a patient's experience, it is not a direct risk factor for postoperative complications like obstructive sleep apnea is.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Metabolic alkalosis is indicated by a high pH and a high HCO3 level. In this case, the pH is 7.5, which is above the normal range of 7.35-7.45, and the HCO3 is 32 mEq/L, which is above the normal range of 22-26 mEq/L.
Choice B reason: Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a high CO2 level and a low pH, which is not the case here as the CO2 is normal and the pH is high.
Choice C reason: Respiratory alkalosis typically presents with a low CO2 level and a high pH. Since the CO2 is normal, this condition does not fit the patient's ABG results.
Choice D reason: Metabolic acidosis would present with a low pH and a low HCO3 level. Given that both the pH and HCO3 are high, metabolic acidosis is not the correct diagnosis.
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