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. A client who has an autoimmune disorder: While autoimmune disorders can affect the body's ability to regulate blood sugar, they do not directly cause type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). T2DM is primarily related to insulin resistance and other metabolic factors such as obesity, genetics, and lifestyle.
B. A 40-year-old client with hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia is typically associated with insulin-treated diabetes or other endocrine issues, but it is not a risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes mellitus. In fact, hypoglycemia may indicate an issue with insulin or glucose regulation rather than insulin resistance.
C. A client who does not get much sleep: Chronic sleep deprivation is a well-established risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes mellitus. Lack of sleep disrupts metabolic processes, increases stress hormone levels (like cortisol), and can lead to insulin resistance, making this client the most at risk.
D. A 26-year-old female client who has never been pregnant: Pregnancy is not a risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes mellitus; however, gestational diabetes (a form of diabetes during pregnancy) does increase the future risk of developing T2DM. A client who has never been pregnant is not at a higher risk compared to other factors like obesity, age, or family history of diabetes.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "Clients with hypoglycemia cannot participate in religious/cultural fasting.": While fasting can increase the risk of hypoglycemia in clients with type 1 diabetes, it is not absolutely prohibited. With close monitoring and adjustments to insulin and diet, some clients may safely observe fasting.
B. “Keeping supplies on hand to treat hypoglycemic episodes is important.": This is appropriate advice, as clients with type 1 diabetes are at risk for sudden drops in blood glucose. Readily available glucose tablets, juice, or snacks can help promptly correct hypoglycemia.
C. "Clients will usually have obvious manifestations of hypoglycemia.": Some individuals, especially those with long-standing diabetes, may experience hypoglycemia unawareness. They may not have typical warning signs, making early detection more difficult.
D. "Increasing exercise can help with hypoglycemia.”: Exercise generally lowers blood glucose levels and can actually trigger hypoglycemia if not planned with appropriate insulin or carbohydrate adjustments. It does not help treat or prevent hypoglycemia on its own.
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