A patient with a history of renal failure presents with confusion. This altered mental status is characteristic of
Hydronephrosis, in which there is increased cerebral edema.
Uremic encephalopathy, caused by excess circulating urea that irritates and inflames the brain.
Metabolic alkalosis, which develops from over-secretion of HCO3 (bicarbonate).
Hypotension caused by hypophosphatemia.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Hydronephrosis may lead to renal dysfunction but does not directly explain the altered mental status or confusion in this context.
B. Uremic encephalopathy occurs due to the accumulation of waste products, particularly urea, in the bloodstream, which can lead to neurotoxicity and confusion.
C. Metabolic alkalosis does not typically cause confusion; it is more related to acid-base disturbances and does not develop from over-secretion of bicarbonate in renal failure.
D. Hypotension due to hypophosphatemia is not a common cause of confusion, and while electrolyte imbalances can affect mental status, this option does not directly connect with renal failure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Creatine kinase is an enzyme released when muscle tissue is damaged, often used in diagnosing muscle injuries or heart attacks, not coronary artery disease risk.
B. Elevated homocysteine levels are associated with an increased risk for coronary artery disease as it can damage the blood vessel walls and promote clot formation.
C. High levels of serum high-density lipoproteins (HDL) are protective against coronary artery disease, not a risk factor.
D. Serum potassium is important for cardiovascular health, but it does not directly correlate with coronary artery disease risk.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. While the kidneys do excrete HCO3 to help in metabolic compensation, this process is slower than respiratory compensation.
B. An increase in respiratory rate would further decrease CO2, worsening the alkalosis rather than compensating for it.
C. Creating more HCO3 would not compensate for respiratory alkalosis and would actually increase the pH further.
D. The body will decrease the respiratory rate to retain more CO2, helping to lower the pH and partially correct the alkalosis.
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