A patient's blood gases show a pH of 7.53, PCO2 of 48, and HCO3 of 36 mEq/L. The nurse realizes that the acid-base disorder this patient is demonstrating is which of the following?
Respiratory Acidosis
Respiratory Alkalosis
Metabolic Alkalosis
Metabolic Acidosis
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Respiratory Acidosis is characterized by a low pH and a high PCO2, which is not the case here.
Choice B reason: Respiratory Alkalosis would involve a high pH and a low PCO2, which is not consistent with the patient's PCO2 level.
Choice C reason: Metabolic Alkalosis is indicated by a high pH and a high HCO3, which matches the patient's blood gas values.
Choice D reason: Metabolic Acidosis would show a low pH and a low HCO3, which is the opposite of this patient's presentation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: While it is useful to know the patient's current pain management strategies, new onset severe back pain could indicate a serious complication such as a spinal fracture or compression, which requires immediate attention.
Choice B reason: Reassuring the patient is not appropriate without further assessment, as new onset severe pain could signify a serious issue that needs to be addressed.
Choice C reason: Suggesting a back brace may be part of the management plan, but it should not precede notifying the healthcare provider of new severe pain.
Choice D reason: Notifying the healthcare provider is the correct action because new onset severe back pain in a patient with multiple myeloma could indicate a serious condition such as a spinal fracture or compression, which requires prompt evaluation and treatment.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason : A renal biopsy is an invasive procedure that can directly assess the extent of glomerular damage and is considered the gold standard for diagnosing the cause of abnormal GFR.
Choice B reason : Routine urinalysis can detect abnormalities in the urine but cannot quantify GFR or directly assess glomerular damage.
Choice C reason : A renal scan can evaluate renal perfusion and function but is less specific for glomerular damage compared to a biopsy.
Choice D reason : Creatinine clearance can estimate GFR but does not provide information on the specific cause of glomerular damage.
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