A nurse is reviewing the arterial blood gas values for a client.
The pH is 7.32, PaCO₂ 48 mm Hg and the HCO₃ is 23 mEq/L. The nurse should recognize that these findings indicate which of the following acid-base balances?
Metabolic acidosis.
Metabolic alkalosis.
Respiratory alkalosis.
Respiratory acidosis.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH and decreased HCO₃ levels, not increased PaCO₂.
Choice B rationale
Metabolic alkalosis presents with an elevated pH and increased HCO₃ levels, which do not match the given values.
Choice C rationale
Respiratory alkalosis is indicated by a high pH and decreased PaCO₂, opposite of the provided values.
Choice D rationale
Respiratory acidosis is identified by a low pH, elevated PaCO₂, and normal HCO₃, aligning with the provided values.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Obtaining a wound culture is crucial to identify the causative organism and guide appropriate antibiotic therapy. Prompt identification and treatment of the infection source can prevent further systemic complications.
Choice B rationale:
Rapidly administering 30 mL/kg of normal saline helps to restore intravascular volume, improve hemodynamic stability, and enhance tissue perfusion. This intervention is vital in the initial management of sepsis to prevent organ dysfunction.
Choice D rationale:
Obtaining blood cultures before initiating antibiotic therapy is essential to identify the causative microorganism and tailor antibiotic treatment. This step ensures accurate diagnosis and effective management of sepsis.
Choice E rationale:
Administering broad-spectrum antibiotics as soon as possible is critical in managing sepsis. Early and appropriate antibiotic therapy significantly reduces mortality and morbidity by targeting the suspected pathogens promptly.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Implementing a low-sodium diet helps reduce fluid retention and ascites in clients with cirrhosis, improving their condition.
Choice B rationale
Furosemide is a diuretic that helps reduce fluid overload and ascites in clients with cirrhosis by promoting excretion of excess fluid.
Choice C rationale
Warfarin is an anticoagulant and is not typically used in the management of cirrhosis as it could increase the risk of bleeding complications, especially in clients with liver dysfunction.
Choice D rationale
Measuring the client's abdominal girth is crucial for monitoring the progression of ascites, a common complication of cirrhosis.
Choice E rationale
Encouraging weight lifting is not advisable as it can exacerbate varices and increase the risk of bleeding in clients with cirrhosis.
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