A nurse is reviewing the arterial blood gas values for a client. The nurse should recognize that the values indicate which of the following acid-base imbalances?
The values are:
- pH: 7.56
- PaCO2: 55 mmHg
- HCO3: 33 mEq/L
Normal ranges:
- pH: 7.35-7.45
- PaCO2: 35-45 mmHg
- HCO3: 22-28 mEq/L
Metabolic Alkalosis
Metabolic Acidosis
Respiratory Alkalosis
Respiratory Acidosis
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
Metabolic Alkalosis is correct. The pH of 7.56 is above the normal range (7.35-7.45), indicating alkalosis. The HCO3 level of 33 mEq/L is also above the normal range (22-28 mEq/L), which suggests a metabolic cause. In metabolic alkalosis, the body has an excess of bicarbonate or a loss of hydrogen ions.
Choice B Reason:
Metabolic Acidosis is incorrect. Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH (below 7.35) and a low HCO3 level (below 22 mEq/L). The given values indicate alkalosis, not acidosis.
Choice C Reason:
Respiratory Alkalosis is incorrect. Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a high pH (above 7.45) and a low PaCO2 (below 35 mmHg). In this case, the PaCO2 is elevated (55 mmHg), which does not align with respiratory alkalosis.
Choice D Reason:
Respiratory Acidosis is incorrect. Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a low pH (below 7.35) and a high PaCO2 (above 45 mmHg). While the PaCO2 is elevated, the pH indicates alkalosis, not acidosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Keep the drainage system below the level of the client’s chest at all times is correct. This measure ensures that gravity assists in the drainage of air and fluid from the pleural space, preventing backflow into the chest cavity. Keeping the drainage system below chest level maintains the negative pressure needed for effective drainage.
Choice B Reason:
Clamp the chest tube prior to transferring the client to a wheelchair is incorrect. Clamping the chest tube can lead to a buildup of air or fluid in the pleural space, potentially causing a tension pneumothorax. The chest tube should remain unclamped to allow continuous drainage.
Choice C Reason:
Empty the collection chamber prior to transport is incorrect. While it is important to monitor and manage the drainage, emptying the collection chamber is not necessary before transport. The focus should be on maintaining the integrity and function of the drainage system.
Choice D Reason:
Disconnect the chest tube from the drainage system during transport is incorrect. Disconnecting the chest tube can lead to a loss of the negative pressure system, resulting in potential complications such as pneumothorax. The chest tube should remain connected to ensure continuous drainage and maintain the negative pressure.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Hyperkalosis is incorrect. Hyperkalosis refers to an elevated level of potassium in the blood, which is not directly related to the pH level. While hyperkalemia can occur in acidosis, it is not the primary condition indicated by a low pH
Choice B Reason:
Hyponatremia is incorrect. Hyponatremia refers to low sodium levels in the blood. It does not directly affect the pH level and is not indicated by the pH value provided.
Choice C Reason:
Acidosis is correct. The normal pH range for arterial blood is 7.35 to 7.45. A pH of 7.10 is below this range, indicating that the blood is too acidic. This condition is known as acidosis.
Choice D Reason:
Alkalosis is incorrect. Alkalosis refers to a condition where the blood pH is higher than the normal range, indicating that the blood is too basic. A pH of 7.10 is too low, not too high, and therefore indicates acidosis.
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