A patient's arterial blood gas (ABG) results show a pH of 7.35, PaCO2 of 40 mmHg, and HCO3- of 21 mEq/L. What type of acid-base imbalance is present and how would you classify it?
Respiratory alkalosis, fully compensated
Metabolic acidosis, partially compensated
Respiratory acidosis, fully compensated
Metabolic acidosis, fully compensated
The Correct Answer is B
A. Respiratory alkalosis, fully compensated: pH is low normal (7.35), and the bicarbonate (HCO3-) level is low (21 mEq/L), indicating metabolic acidosis, not respiratory alkalosis. Respiratory alkalosis would present with a high pH and low PaCO2.
B. Metabolic acidosis, partially compensated: The pH is slightly acidic (7.35), and the bicarbonate level is low (21 mEq/L), indicating metabolic acidosis. The PaCO2 level is normal, suggesting partial compensation by the respiratory system, but the body has not fully compensated for the acidosis yet.
C. Respiratory acidosis, fully compensated: Respiratory acidosis would present with an elevated PaCO2 and a low pH, which is not the case here. The PaCO2 is normal at 40 mmHg, so this option is incorrect.
D. Metabolic acidosis, fully compensated: While the client does have metabolic acidosis, the respiratory system has not fully compensated for the acidosis, as evidenced by the normal PaCO2 level. Therefore, the compensation is partial, not full.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The client should maintain systolic BP between 141 and 145 mm Hg. This BP range is too high for clients with hypertension, especially those who have had a transient ischemic attack (TIA). The goal is to reduce BP to lower levels to prevent further stroke risk.
B. The client should maintain systolic BP between 136 and 140 mm Hg: This is still too high. Current guidelines recommend keeping systolic BP lower to reduce the risk of recurrent strokes or further vascular damage.
C. The client should maintain systolic BP between 120 and 129 mm Hg: This is the most appropriate target for clients with hypertension and TIA. Maintaining a BP within this range is known to reduce the risk of future strokes.
D. The client should maintain systolic BP between 130 and 135 mm Hg: While this range is lower than some others, it is still above the ideal target for stroke prevention, which is under 130 mm Hg for clients at high risk.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Provide the client with grooming supplies and a private area to bathe: After evidence collection and medical treatment are complete, allowing the client to bathe in privacy supports their dignity and helps restore a sense of control. This is a therapeutic and appropriate step prior to discharge.
B. Call the client's home for someone to pick up the client: Contacting someone without the client's consent could breach confidentiality and potentially endanger the client, especially if the assailant lives in the same household.
C. Retain the client's cell phone for evidence: The nurse does not have the authority to confiscate personal property like a cell phone. Evidence collection must follow legal protocols, typically involving law enforcement and forensic teams.
D. Send the client's clothes to the laundry before returning the items to the client: The client's clothing may be part of the forensic evidence. Washing or returning them before proper processing would compromise the legal chain of custody.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.