Based on the ABG results: pH 7.33, CO2: 50, HCO3: 22, what acid-base imbalance is present?
Respiratory acidosis
Metabolic acidosis
Metabolic alkalosis
Respiratory alkalosis
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Respiratory acidosis is indicated by a pH lower than the normal range (7.35-7.45), combined with a CO2 level higher than the normal range (35-45 mmHg). In this scenario, the pH is 7.33, which is slightly acidic, and the CO2 is 50, which is elevated, suggesting that the lungs are not adequately removing CO2.
Choice B reason: Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH and a low HCO3 level. However, in this case, the HCO3 is normal (22-26 mEq/L), ruling out metabolic acidosis.
Choice C reason: Metabolic alkalosis would present with a high pH and a high HCO3 level. Since the pH is low, metabolic alkalosis is not the correct answer.
Choice D reason: Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and a low CO2 level. Given that the pH is low and the CO2 is high, respiratory alkalosis is not the condition indicated by these ABG results.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["1"]
Explanation
Step 1: Identify the prescribed dose and the dose per tablet. The prescribed dose is 100 mcg and the dose per tablet is also 100 mcg.
Step 2: Divide the prescribed dose by the dose per tablet to find out how many tablets are needed. So, 100 mcg (prescribed dose) ÷ 100 mcg/tablet (dose per tablet) = 1 tablet
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Elevating the patient in a high Fowler's position can help improve lung expansion and oxygenation, and using an incentive spirometer along with coughing can help prevent atelectasis and pneumonia, which are common postoperative complications.
Choice B reason: Increasing oxygen to 70% without a specific indication could lead to oxygen toxicity, especially without assessing the patient's current oxygenation status.
Choice C reason: Switching to a rebreather mask is not indicated based on the given ABG results and could lead to CO2 retention.
Choice D reason: Positioning the patient prone and performing postural drainage are not typically first-line interventions for a patient one day post-thoracotomy and could be contraindicated due to the recent surgery.
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