An emergency department nurse admits a client who has tried to commit suicide by taking an overdose of hydromorphone (Dilaudid), a narcotic. For which acid-base imbalance should the nurse assess this client for?
Respiratory alkalosis
Metabolic acidosis
Metabolic alkalosis
Respiratory acidosis
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. Respiratory alkalosis results from hyperventilation, which is unlikely with opioid overdose.
B. Metabolic acidosis can occur from other causes but is not the primary imbalance here.
C. Metabolic alkalosis is not associated with opioid overdose.
D. Respiratory acidosis occurs due to hypoventilation caused by opioid-induced respiratory depression, leading to CO₂ retention and decreased pH.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C"]
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Magnesium plays a role in acid-base balance and influences potassium levels.
B. Sodium is important but less directly related to acid-base balance than potassium and magnesium.
C. Potassium is critical to monitor because acid-base imbalances often cause shifts in potassium levels, affecting cardiac function.
D. Calcium levels can be affected but are less immediately critical than potassium and magnesium.
E. Phosphate is involved in metabolism but is not a primary electrolyte monitored for acid-base balance.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. While sodium bicarbonate can help mitigate some cardiac effects of hyperkalemia, this is not its primary indication.
B. Sodium bicarbonate may be used as an adjunct in hyperkalemia but not as a direct treatment.
C. Sodium bicarbonate does not treat hyponatremia.
D. Sodium bicarbonate is primarily used to neutralize excess acid in the blood and manage metabolic acidosis by increasing blood pH.
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