Arterial blood gases (ABGs) have been drawn on the client. The nurse reviews the results. pH is 7.31 PaCO2 50 mm Hg (6.65 kPa) HCO3 26 mEq/L (26 mmol/L) How will the nurse interpret these ABG results.
Respiratory Decompression
Respiratory Alkalosis
Respiratory PH
Respiratory Acidosis
The Correct Answer is D
a) Respiratory Decompression: "Respiratory Decompression" is not a term used in ABG interpretation.
b) Respiratory Alkalosis: Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a pH greater than 7.45 and a PaCO2 less than 35 mm Hg. In this case, the pH is low (7.31), and the PaCO2 is elevated, which is not consistent with respiratory alkalosis.
c) Respiratory PH: "Respiratory PH" is not a proper ABG term.
d) Respiratory Acidosis: The pH is 7.31, which is acidotic (normal range is 7.35-7.45). The PaCO2 is 50 mm Hg (elevated), indicating that the cause of the acidosis is respiratory in nature, as the kidneys have not yet compensated with HCO3 (bicarbonate).
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
a) Lay the client flat in the bed: The client should not be flat to reduce the risk of aspiration. The head of the bed should be elevated at least 30 to 45 degrees.
b) Administer oral pain medication: This action is not related to verifying NG tube placement prior to feeding.
c) Allow the feeding to flow by gravity: The nurse should verify tube placement before administering the feeding, regardless of whether it’s given by gravity or pump.
d) Verify the placement: Verifying the NG tube placement is essential to ensure the feeding goes into the stomach and not the lungs, which can lead to aspiration pneumonia
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
a) Discontinue the feedings and notify the physician of your assessment findings: These are signs of feeding intolerance or possible complications such as delayed gastric emptying, infection, or dumping syndrome. Stopping the feeding prevents further distress, and the physician should be informed promptly.
b) Continue feedings as ordered: Continuing feedings may worsen the symptoms and put the patient at risk for aspiration or further gastrointestinal complications.
c) Administer prn pain medication: Pain medication will not address the underlying issue of nausea, vomiting, and GI symptoms. It may also mask symptoms or cause further GI upset.
d) This is a normal response, continue feedings as ordered: These symptoms are not normal. Nausea, vomiting, distention, and frequent diarrhea suggest a problem with the feeding regimen.
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