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 C
Explanation
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.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Right arm muscle spasms may be uncomfortable but are not as critical as circulatory issues.
Choice B reason: A temperature of 99.9°F (37.7°C) is slightly elevated but not immediately alarming post-surgery.
Choice C reason: Loss of the right radial pulse could indicate a serious complication such as compartment syndrome, which requires urgent atention.
Choice D reason: Pain with arm movement is expected post-surgery but is not as urgent as loss of pulse.
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