A triage nurse is in the emergency room assessing a patient with a longstanding diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder. The nurse notes upon assessment the client is hyperventilating. The triage nurse is aware that hyperventilation is the most common cause of which acid-base imbalance?

Respiratory acidosis

Respiratory alkalosis

Increased PaCO2

Metabolic acidosis

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Respiratory acidosis results from hypoventilation, which causes CO₂ retention, not hyperventilation.
B. Respiratory alkalosis occurs when excessive breathing (hyperventilation) leads to excessive loss of CO₂, increasing blood pH — the most common acid-base imbalance in anxiety-induced hyperventilation.
C. Increased PaCO₂ is seen in respiratory acidosis, not during hyperventilation, where CO₂ levels drop.
D. Metabolic acidosis is unrelated to respiratory patterns and is caused by increased acid production or loss of bicarbonate (e.g., in kidney failure or diarrhea).

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Apples are low in potassium and not the best choice for increasing potassium levels.
B. Fish contains some potassium, but the amount varies and may not be sufficient as a primary source for dietary supplementation.
C. Rice is not a significant source of potassium.
D. Bananas are rich in potassium and are commonly recommended to help correct mild hypokalemia through diet.

A. "Do you feel any muscle twitches or spasms?" B. "Do you feel flushed or sweaty?" C. "Are you experiencing any dizziness or lightheadedness?" D. "Are you having any pain that seems to be radiating from your bones?"

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Removal or injury of the parathyroid glands during thyroid surgery can lead to hypocalcemia, which often presents with muscle twitching, spasms, or tingling (especially around the mouth or in the fingers). This is the most urgent complication to assess for.
B. Flushing or sweating is more indicative of a hypermetabolic state, such as in hyperthyroidism or pheochromocytoma, not parathyroid-related issues.
C. Dizziness or lightheadedness is nonspecific and not typically the first sign of hypocalcemia.
D. Bone pain may be associated with chronic hyperparathyroidism, not acute postoperative hypocalcemia.

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A triage nurse is in the emergency room assessing a patient with a longstanding diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder. The nurse notes upon assessment the client is hyperventilating. The triage nurse is aware that hyperventilation is the most common cause of which acid-base imbalance?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client's most recent laboratory results show a slight decrease in potassium. The health care provider has opted to forgo drug therapy but has suggested increasing the client's dietary intake of potassium. What should the nurse recommend?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client with thyroid cancer who has undergone surgery, and a significant amount of parathyroid tissue has been removed. The nurse should prioritize what question when addressing potential complications?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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