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?

c. "I will have a chest x-ray following the procedure."

Explanation:

The statement that indicates an understanding of the information provided is "I will have a chest x-ray following the procedure."

Explanation for the other options:

a. "I will have general anesthesia during the procedure":

This statement is incorrect. Thoracentesis is typically performed using local anesthesia, which numbs the area where the needle will be inserted. General anesthesia, which induces a state of unconsciousness, is not usually required for this procedure.

b. "I will lie flat for 6 hours following the procedure":

This statement is incorrect. While the client may be advised to lie still for a short period after the thoracentesis, it is not necessary for them to lie flat for a full 6 hours. The specific post-procedure instructions may vary depending on the client's condition and the healthcare provider's preferences.

d. "I will breathe deeply through my nose during the procedure":

This statement is incorrect. During a thoracentesis, the client is typically asked to sit upright and lean forward to allow beter access to the space between the lungs and chest wall. They may be instructed to take slow, deep breaths and hold their breath for short periods as needed during the procedure to help maintain proper positioning and reduce the risk of complications.

In summary, the statement that demonstrates an understanding of the thoracentesis procedure is "I will have a chest x-ray following the procedure." This indicates the client's awareness of the need for a post- procedure chest x-ray to evaluate the results and ensure the absence of any complications.

The instruction that the nurse should include is "You can take a shower 1 day after your procedure." According to the Cleveland Clinic, the morning after the procedure, the client may take the dressing off the catheter insertion site. The easiest way to do this is when showering, get the tape and dressing wet and remove it.

Option a is incorrect because there is no information suggesting that a client must wait 3 days before resuming a regular diet after a cardiac catheterization.

Option c is incorrect because according to the Cleveland Clinic, clients should gradually increase their activities until they reach their normal activity level within one week after the procedure.

Option d is incorrect because there is no information suggesting that a client must wait 1 week before returning to school after cardiac catheterization.