A nurse working in an emergency department is reviewing laboratory results of a client who is unconscious and has fruity odor to his breath. The nurse suspects diabetic ketoacidosis. Which of the following results should the nurse expect for this acid-base imbalance?
Bicarbonate 26 mEq/L
Serum pH 7.32
Creatinine 1.2 mg/dL
BUN 20 mg/dL
The Correct Answer is B
A) Bicarbonate 26 mEq/L: A bicarbonate level of 26 mEq/L is within the normal range (22-28 mEq/L) and does not indicate metabolic acidosis, which is characteristic of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). In DKA, bicarbonate levels are usually decreased due to buffering of the excess acids.
B) Serum pH 7.32: A serum pH of 7.32 is indicative of acidemia, which is consistent with metabolic acidosis seen in DKA. The pH is typically lower than the normal range (7.35-7.45) in DKA due to the accumulation of ketoacids.
C) Creatinine 1.2 mg/dL: A creatinine level of 1.2 mg/dL is slightly elevated but does not specifically indicate metabolic acidosis. Elevated creatinine may suggest renal impairment but is not directly linked to the acid-base disturbance seen in DKA.
D) BUN 20 mg/dL: A blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level of 20 mg/dL is elevated and may indicate dehydration or kidney dysfunction but does not specifically diagnose the acid-base imbalance associated with DKA. In DKA, bicarbonate and pH levels are more directly affected.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Monitor the client for an elevated RBC count.: While an elevated white blood cell count (WBC) is more indicative of appendicitis, an elevated RBC count is not typically used to diagnose appendicitis.
B. Instruct the client to not eat food or drink liquids.: This is important as it prepares the client for a potential surgical procedure. If the appendix is inflamed and surgery is necessary, the client should not eat or drink to prevent complications related to anesthesia and surgery.
C. Administer an enema to the client.: Administering an enema is not recommended as it can increase the risk of perforation of the appendix, which is a serious complication.
D. Maintain the client in a supine position.: While maintaining a supine position may be necessary, it is not as critical as ensuring the client remains NPO (nil per os) in preparation for possible surgery. The position is less of a priority compared to dietary restrictions in this scenario.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) "I should make sure that most of my meals contain fried foods to maintain my calorie count": Fried foods are generally high in fat and can be difficult to digest, particularly for individuals with malabsorption syndrome. They are not recommended as a primary source of calories due to their potential to exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms.
B) "I should change to a gluten-free diet to rest my bowel": A gluten-free diet is beneficial for individuals with celiac disease, but it is not universally required for all inflammatory bowel diseases. The decision to adopt a gluten-free diet should be based on specific medical advice rather than general guidelines for inflammatory bowel disease.
C) "I should try to limit foods containing lactose to prevent bloating and cramping": Limiting lactose-containing foods is a common recommendation for individuals with malabsorption syndrome, especially if lactose intolerance is present. Lactose can exacerbate bloating and cramping, so managing intake can help alleviate these symptoms.
D) "I should eat a high-fiber diet daily to decrease my episodes of flare-ups": High-fiber diets are not always recommended for individuals with inflammatory bowel disease, as fiber can exacerbate symptoms and contribute to flare-ups. A low-fiber or modified fiber diet may be more appropriate depending on the individual’s symptoms and disease state.
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