A patient is experiencing respiratory acidosis. Which organ system is responsible for compensation in this patient?
Renal
Endocrine
Respiratory
Gastrointestinal
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale:
A. The renal system compensates for respiratory acidosis by retaining bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻) and excreting hydrogen ions to help normalize blood pH.
B. The endocrine system regulates hormones, but it is not involved in acid-base compensation.
C. The respiratory system is the cause of the acidosis in this case and therefore cannot compensate.
D. The gastrointestinal system has a minor role in maintaining acid-base balance, but it is not the primary compensatory system for respiratory imbalances.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Respiratory acidosis results from hypoventilation (respiratory rate of 6 breaths/min), leading to CO₂ retention and decreased blood pH. Cyanosis also indicates poor oxygenation, supporting this diagnosis.
B. Metabolic acidosis typically results from renal failure, diarrhea, or diabetic ketoacidosis, not directly from low respiratory rate.
C. Respiratory alkalosis is caused by hyperventilation, not hypoventilation.
D. Metabolic alkalosis is usually caused by vomiting or diuretic use and is not associated with decreased respiratory rate or cyanosis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Cool, moist skin is typically seen in conditions like shock or anxiety, not dehydration. Dehydrated clients often have dry, warm skin.
B. Urine output of 20 mL/hr is below the normal minimum (about 30 mL/hr) and is a common sign of dehydration as the body conserves fluid.
C. Sodium of 142 mEq/L is within the normal range (135–145 mEq/L) and does not indicate dehydration by itself.
D. Bradycardia (low heart rate) is not typical in dehydration. Instead, the body usually responds with tachycardia to compensate for low fluid volume.
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