A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who has DKA. The client's ABG results are pH 7.30, PaCO₂ 34 mm Hg and HCO₃ 21 mEq/L. The nurse should identify that these values indicate which of the following acid-base imbalances?
Respiratory alkalosis
Metabolic alkalosis
Metabolic acidosis
Respiratory acidosis
The Correct Answer is C
A nurse reviewing the laboratory results of a client who has DKA should identify that the client's ABG results of pH 7.30, PaCO₂ 34 mm Hg and HCO₃ 21 mEq/L indicate metabolic acidosis. Metabolic acidosis is an acid-base imbalance characterized by a low pH (less than 7.35) and a low bicarbonate level (less than 22 mEq/L).
The other options are not correct.
a) Respiratory alkalosis is an acid-base imbalance characterized by a high pH (greater than 7.45) and a low PaCO₂ (less than 35 mm Hg).
b) Metabolic alkalosis is an acid-base imbalance characterized by a high pH (greater than 7.45) and a high bicarbonate level (greater than 26 mEq/L).
d) Respiratory acidosis is an acid-base imbalance characterized by a low pH (less than 7.35) and a high PaCO₂ (greater than 45 mm Hg).
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
To test visual acuity using a Snellen chart, the nurse should have the patient wear glasses or contact lenses if they normally wear them . The patient should stand 20 feet from the chart . The nurse should tell the patient to first cover the right eye, then left eye, and lastly read the chart with both eyes .
The other options are not correct because:
a). The client should be positioned 20 feet away from the chart, not 3 meters (10 feet).
b) The nurse should document the smallest line the client can read accurately on the chart, not the largest line.
c) The nurse should instruct the client to begin the assessment by covering one eye and reading aloud the letters on the chart, beginning at the top and moving toward the bottom
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Answer: B. Compare the result with the baseline reading
Rationale:
A. Check the client's heart rate on the oximeter:
Although checking the heart rate may provide context for assessing the client's overall status, it does not address the primary concern of the low oxygen saturation. Understanding the client's baseline saturation level takes priority to guide further actions effectively.
B. Compare the result with the baseline reading:
Comparing the reading with the client's baseline is essential. For clients with chronic respiratory conditions, baseline oxygen levels may naturally be lower. Identifying if this 88% saturation is typical or unusual for the client helps determine the need for further intervention or adjustment.
C. Decrease the amount of oxygen administered:
Reducing oxygen flow when the saturation is low is contraindicated, as it could worsen hypoxia. Instead, increasing oxygen may be warranted if the reading remains below the baseline after further assessment.
D. Perform another reading while the client ambulates:
Repeating the reading during ambulation may worsen hypoxia and is not ideal without understanding baseline oxygenation at rest. Re-evaluation at rest or in a different position may be more appropriate for accurate assessment.
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