A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who was an unrestrained passenger in a motor-vehicle crash. The ABG results are as follows: pH 7.32, HCO3 24 mEq/L, PaCO2 48 mm Hg. The nurse should identify the client is experiencing which of the following acid-base imbalances?
Respiratory acidosis
Metabolic acidosis
Respiratory alkalosis
Metabolic alkalosis
The Correct Answer is A
A) Respiratory acidosis: This condition is indicated by a low pH (7.32) and an elevated PaCO2 (48 mm Hg), while HCO3 remains normal (24 mEq/L). Respiratory acidosis occurs when there is an accumulation of carbon dioxide in the blood, usually due to hypoventilation or impaired gas exchange in the lungs.
B) Metabolic acidosis: Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH and a decreased HCO3 level. In this scenario, the HCO3 level is normal, ruling out metabolic acidosis.
C) Respiratory alkalosis: Respiratory alkalosis is indicated by a high pH and a decreased PaCO2. In this case, the pH is low, and the PaCO2 is elevated, which contradicts the characteristics of respiratory alkalosis.
D) Metabolic alkalosis: Metabolic alkalosis would show a high pH and an elevated HCO3 level. Since the pH is low and the HCO3 is normal, this condition does not fit the criteria for metabolic alkalosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Drowsiness: While drowsiness can be a symptom of elevated magnesium levels, it is not the most critical finding to report immediately. Drowsiness can be observed with other conditions as well.
B) Diminished patellar reflexes: This can be indicative of hypermagnesemia, but it is a less immediate concern compared to other symptoms. Monitoring reflexes is important, but not the priority.
C) Generalized muscle weakness: Muscle weakness is a common symptom of elevated magnesium levels, but it is less urgent compared to cardiac issues. Although important, it does not pose an immediate risk like bradycardia.
D) Bradycardia: Elevated magnesium levels can cause serious cardiac complications, including bradycardia. This can be life-threatening and requires prompt attention to prevent severe outcomes, making it the priority to report to the provider.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) "This medication might cause urinary frequency": Meclizine is not commonly associated with urinary frequency. It is an antihistamine used primarily to manage symptoms of vertigo and motion sickness rather than affecting urinary function.
B) "This medication might cause an increase in your blood sugar": Meclizine does not typically affect blood sugar levels. Concerns about blood sugar levels are more relevant to other medications, such as corticosteroids or certain antihypertensives, rather than meclizine.
C) "This medication might cause you to have excess saliva": Excess saliva is not a common side effect of meclizine. Antihistamines like meclizine usually have the opposite effect, potentially causing dry mouth rather than an increase in saliva.
D) "This medication might cause drowsiness": Drowsiness is a known side effect of meclizine, as it is an antihistamine with sedative properties. This effect can be significant for some individuals, so it's important for clients to be aware of this potential impact on their daily activities.
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