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

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.

Choice A Reason:

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are typically caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract. While strict bed rest can increase the risk of UTIs due to factors like catheter use and reduced mobility, the use of an incentive spirometer does not directly prevent UTIs. Instead, preventing UTIs involves maintaining good hygiene, ensuring adequate fluid intake, and, if necessary, using catheters properly.

Choice B Reason:

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition where blood clots form in the deep veins, usually in the legs. This can occur due to prolonged immobility, such as strict bed rest after surgery. Preventing DVT involves measures like using compression stockings, administering anticoagulant medications, and encouraging leg exercises. An incentive spirometer, which is used to improve lung function, does not directly prevent DVT.

Choice C Reason:

Constipation is a common issue for patients on bed rest due to reduced physical activity and changes in diet. Preventing constipation involves ensuring adequate hydration, providing a high-fiber diet, and encouraging as much physical activity as possible. The use of an incentive spirometer, which focuses on respiratory function, does not directly address constipation.

Choice D Reason:

Atelectasis is a condition where the alveoli in the lungs collapse, leading to reduced or absent breath sounds in the affected areas. This is a common postoperative complication, especially in patients on strict bed rest, due to shallow breathing and reduced lung expansion. The use of an incentive spirometer encourages deep breathing and helps to keep the alveoli open, thereby preventing atelectasis. This is why the incentive spirometer is an essential tool for postoperative respiratory care.