A patient's ABG results came back with the following values: pH 7.25, CO2 40, HCO3 22. How would you, as the nurse, interpret these results?
Metabolic acidosis
Respiratory acidosis
Metabolic alkalosis
Respiratory alkalosis
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH and a normal or low HCO3. In this case, the pH is 7.25, which is below the normal range of 7.35-7.45, and the HCO3 is 22, which is at the lower end of the normal range of 22-26 mEq/L, indicating metabolic acidosis.
Choice B reason: Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a high CO2 level. However, in this scenario, the CO2 is 40, which is within the normal range of 35-45 mmHg, ruling out respiratory acidosis.
Choice C reason: Metabolic alkalosis would present with a high pH and a high HCO3 level. Since the pH is low, metabolic alkalosis is not the correct answer.
Choice D reason: Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a low CO2 level and a high pH. Given that the CO2 is normal and the pH is low, respiratory alkalosis is not the condition indicated by these ABG results.
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Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: While opioids can lower blood pressure, it is not as common as respiratory depression.
Choice B reason: Causing drowsiness is a common side effect of opioids, but it is less critical than respiratory effects.
Choice C reason: Opioids do not typically induce a cough; they may actually suppress coughing.
Choice D reason: Opioids can slow the respiratory rate, which is a critical side effect that nurses must monitor for and educate patients about.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Increased length of stay is not a direct outcome of preoperative teaching and depends on many factors.
Choice B reason: Reduced postoperative respiratory function can be a concern, and preoperative teaching aims to mitigate this risk by educating on breathing exercises and mobilization.
Choice C reason: Preoperative teaching should help manage expectations and pain control strategies, not increase postoperative pain.
Choice D reason: Preoperative teaching should aim to reduce anxiety by providing information and reassurance, not induce it.
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