A nurse reviews the arterial blood gas (ABG) values of a client admitted with pneumonia: pH, 7.32; PaCO2, 48 mm Hg; PaO2, 70 mm Hg; and HCO3, 24 mEq/L. What do these values indicate?
Metabolic Acidosis
Respiratory Acidosis
Metabolic Alkalosis
Respiratory Alkalosis
The Correct Answer is B
A. Metabolic Acidosis
Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH and low bicarbonate (HCO3) level. In this case, the pH is low (indicating acidosis), but the bicarbonate level is within the normal range, which is inconsistent with metabolic acidosis.
B. Respiratory Acidosis
This is correct. Respiratory acidosis is characterized by an elevated partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2), leading to a decrease in pH. The ABG values in this case indicate elevated PaCO2 and a low pH, consistent with respiratory acidosis.
C. Metabolic Alkalosis
Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and high bicarbonate (HCO3) level. In this case, the pH is low (indicating acidosis), which is inconsistent with metabolic alkalosis.
D. Respiratory Alkalosis
Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a low partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) and a high pH. In this case, the PaCO2 is elevated, which is inconsistent with respiratory alkalosis.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Increase the intake of vitamin E to enhance absorption:
While vitamin C can enhance iron absorption, vitamin E does not play a significant role in iron absorption. Vitamin C-rich foods can be advised to enhance iron absorption.
B. Iron will cause the stools to darken in color:
This statement is accurate. Iron supplements can cause stools to appear darker in color, often black or greenish-black. This change in stool color is normal and expected when taking iron supplements.
C. Take the iron with dairy products to enhance absorption:
Dairy products can inhibit iron absorption. It's better to take iron supplements with vitamin C-rich foods or orange juice to enhance absorption.
D. Limit foods high in fiber due to the risk for diarrhea:
Fiber-rich foods do not necessarily need to be limited when taking iron supplements. However, some individuals may experience constipation when taking iron supplements, in which case increasing fluid intake and dietary fiber can help alleviate constipation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. The need to monitor urine for the presence of albumin:
Explanation: Monitoring urine for albumin is more associated with microvascular complications, particularly diabetic nephropathy. When the kidneys are affected, albumin may leak into the urine. This is not a macrovascular complication.
B. The relationship between kidney function and blood glucose levels:
Explanation: The relationship between kidney function and blood glucose levels is important, but it is more directly related to microvascular complications, particularly diabetic nephropathy. High blood glucose levels over time can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys.
C. The need for frequent eye examinations for clients with diabetes:
Explanation: This is related to microvascular complications, specifically diabetic retinopathy. Changes in the small blood vessels of the retina can lead to vision problems. While important, it's not directly addressing macrovascular complications.
D. The fact that clients with diabetes have an elevated risk of myocardial infarction:
Explanation: This is the correct answer. Macrovascular complications involve large blood vessels and are associated with conditions such as coronary artery disease, which increases the risk of myocardial infarction in individuals with diabetes.
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