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.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Pneumonia typically causes respiratory acidosis due to impaired gas exchange and CO₂ retention.
B. Brain injuries can affect respiratory patterns, but they are not the most common or direct cause of respiratory alkalosis.
C. Anxiety often leads to hyperventilation, which causes excessive loss of CO₂, resulting in respiratory alkalosis.
D. Emphysema is associated with CO₂ retention, leading to respiratory acidosis, not alkalosis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Mix with a dextrose solution only: Potassium can be mixed in various compatible solutions (such as 0.9% NS or D5½NS). There is no requirement that potassium chloride must be mixed only with dextrose-containing fluids.
B. Administer as a rapid IV push: This is dangerous and contraindicated. IV potassium must never be given as a rapid IV push or bolus, as it can cause fatal cardiac arrhythmias. It must be diluted and administered slowly.
C. Monitor for signs of hypernatremia: While electrolyte monitoring is important, hypernatremia is not the main concern when administering potassium. The nurse should focus on monitoring potassium levels and cardiac status.
D. Ensure the infusion is diluted and given via an IV pump: IV potassium chloride must always be diluted in an appropriate IV fluid and administered via an infusion pump to control the rate and avoid complications such as arrhythmias and vein irritation. Also, the infusion rate should typically not exceed 10 mEq/hr through a peripheral vein.
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