An unresponsive client was brought to the emergency room and had an arterial blood gas drawn. Ten minutes later, the laboratory calls with the following results: PaO2 74%, pH 7.22, PaCO2 85 mm Hg, and HCO3 23 mEq/L. The nurse interprets the results as indicating which imbalance?
Respiratory acidosis without compensation
Metabolic acidosis with full compensation
Respiratory acidosis with partial compensation
Metabolic acidosis without compensation
The Correct Answer is C
A. Respiratory acidosis without compensation: The pH of 7.22 indicates acidosis, but the HCO3 level of 23 mEq/L suggests that compensation is occurring because the HCO3 is within the normal range for respiratory acidosis.
B. Metabolic acidosis with full compensation: The high PaCO2 level is more indicative of respiratory issues, not metabolic acidosis. Additionally, compensation for metabolic acidosis would show elevated HCO3.
C. Respiratory acidosis with partial compensation: The elevated PaCO2 and low pH indicate respiratory acidosis. The normal HCO3 level suggests partial compensation by the kidneys.
D. Metabolic acidosis without compensation: The elevated PaCO2 and normal HCO3 suggest respiratory acidosis rather than metabolic acidosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Weakness in upper extremities: Spinal anesthesia generally affects the lower body, so weakness in the upper extremities is not typically related to this type of anesthesia.
B. Headache: This is the correct choice. A headache is a common post-operative complaint related to spinal anesthesia, often caused by a spinal fluid leak, leading to a post-dural puncture headache.
C. Increased respiratory rate: Spinal anesthesia typically does not affect respiratory rate significantly; it mainly impacts sensation and motor function below the level of anesthesia.
D. Blurred vision: This is not a common issue directly related to spinal anesthesia. Visual disturbances are not typical post-operative complaints associated with spinal anesthesia.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Serum glucose and a Complete Blood Count: While a complete blood count (CBC) is useful in assessing overall health, serum glucose is less relevant in the context of renal disease. The focus should be on kidney function rather than glucose levels.
B. Arterial blood gas and coagulation tests: Arterial blood gas (ABG) and coagulation tests may be important for other conditions, but they are not specifically targeted to evaluate renal function or related preoperative risks in renal disease.
C. Serum creatinine and a Basic Metabolic Panel: This is the correct choice as serum creatinine is a key marker of kidney function, and a Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) provides information on electrolyte levels and overall metabolic status, which are crucial in evaluating the impact of renal disease on surgery.
D. Chest X-ray and cardiac enzymes: These tests are more relevant for evaluating cardiac function and lung status rather than directly assessing kidney function, which is the primary concern in the context of renal disease.
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