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 A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Diarrhea can lead to metabolic acidosis due to the loss of bicarbonate, which is a base, leading to a relative increase in acidity.
Choice B reason: Salicylate intoxication can initially cause respiratory alkalosis due to hyperventilation, but may later lead to metabolic acidosis as the body compensates.
Choice C reason: Vomiting typically leads to a loss of gastric acid, which would cause metabolic alkalosis, not acidosis.
Choice D reason: Hyperventilation is more commonly associated with respiratory alkalosis due to the excessive loss of CO2, which is an acid, not metabolic acidosis.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Poor nutritional status can impair wound healing and increase the risk of wound dehiscence.
Choice B reason: Medication administration is too vague to determine a risk for dehiscence without specifying the type of medication.
Choice C reason: Obesity can increase the risk of dehiscence due to the strain on the wound from excess tissue.
Choice D reason: Nonadherence could contribute to dehiscence if it refers to not following postoperative care instructions, but it is not specific enough in this context.
Choice E reason: An increased metabolic rate can lead to higher demands on the body's healing process, potentially affecting wound integrity.
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