A person with a blood pH of 7.21 is considered to have which of the following?
Alkalosis
Normal blood pH
Acidosis
Hyperkalemia
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A: Alkalosis
Alkalosis occurs when the blood pH is higher than the normal range, specifically above 7.45. This condition indicates that the blood is too alkaline. Causes of alkalosis can include hyperventilation, loss of stomach acid through vomiting, or an overuse of diuretics. Since a blood pH of 7.21 is below the normal range, it does not indicate alkalosis.
Choice B: Normal Blood pH
The normal pH range for blood is between 7.35 and 7.45. This range is crucial for the body’s metabolic processes and enzyme functions. A blood pH of 7.21 is below this range, indicating an abnormal condition.
Choice C: Acidosis
Acidosis is the correct answer. It occurs when the blood pH drops below 7.35, indicating that the blood is too acidic. A pH of 7.21 is significantly below the normal range, confirming acidosis. This condition can result from various factors, including respiratory issues that lead to an accumulation of carbon dioxide or metabolic problems that increase acid production or decrease bicarbonate levels.
Choice D: Hyperkalemia
Hyperkalemia refers to an elevated level of potassium in the blood, not a change in blood pH. While hyperkalemia can be associated with acidosis, it is not defined by the pH level itself. Therefore, a blood pH of 7.21 does not directly indicate hyperkalemia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is True
Explanation
Choice A: True
The statement that a patient with alkalosis can develop hyperkalemia is generally incorrect. Alkalosis, which is a condition characterized by a higher-than-normal pH in the blood, typically leads to hypokalemia rather than hyperkalemia. This occurs because alkalosis causes potassium to shift from the extracellular fluid into the cells, reducing the plasma potassium concentration. Therefore, it is uncommon for alkalosis to result in hyperkalemia.
Choice B: False
The correct answer is that a patient with alkalosis is unlikely to develop hyperkalemia. Alkalosis usually causes a decrease in plasma potassium levels, leading to hypokalemia. This is due to the movement of potassium ions into the cells in exchange for hydrogen ions, which are moved out of the cells to help buffer the increased pH. Consequently, the plasma potassium concentration drops, making hyperkalemia an unlikely outcome in the presence of alkalosis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: Peripheral pulses
Monitoring peripheral pulses is important for assessing circulation and detecting any signs of vascular complications. However, it is not the most critical assessment for a patient receiving 3% NaCl for hyponatremia. The primary concern with hypertonic saline infusion is the risk of fluid overload and central nervous system (CNS) complications.
Choice B: Urinary output
Monitoring urinary output is essential for assessing kidney function and fluid balance. While it is important, it is not the most critical assessment in this scenario. The primary risks associated with 3% NaCl infusion include rapid changes in serum sodium levels and potential CNS complications.
Choice C: Peripheral edema
Peripheral edema can indicate fluid overload, but it is not the most immediate concern when administering hypertonic saline. The nurse should prioritize monitoring for signs of pulmonary edema and neurological changes, which can occur more rapidly and have more severe consequences.
Choice D: Lung sounds and neurological status
Monitoring lung sounds and neurological status is the most important assessment for a patient receiving 3% NaCl for hyponatremia. Hypertonic saline can cause rapid shifts in fluid balance, leading to pulmonary edema and neurological complications such as osmotic demyelination syndrome. Assessing lung sounds helps detect early signs of fluid overload in the lungs, while monitoring neurological status helps identify any changes in mental status or neurological function that could indicate serious complications.
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