Based on your patient's ABG's what acid-base imbalance is present? pH 7.30 HCO3 23 PaCO2 49.
Respiratory alkalosis
Respiratory acidosis
Metabolic alkalosis
Metabolic acidosis
The Correct Answer is B
A. Respiratory alkalosis – Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by elevated pH (>7.45) and low PaCO₂ (<35 mm Hg) due to hyperventilation.
B. Respiratory acidosis – The pH is low (7.30) indicating acidosis, and the PaCO₂ is elevated (49 mm Hg), indicating that the cause is respiratory (CO₂ retention due to hypoventilation). The HCO₃ is normal (23 mEq/L), which supports that the cause is not metabolic.
C. Metabolic alkalosis – This would show an elevated pH (>7.45) and elevated HCO₃ (>28 mEq/L), which is not present here.
D. Metabolic acidosis – Metabolic acidosis is indicated by low pH and low HCO₃ (<21 mEq/L), which is not the case in these ABG values.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The client has become addicted to the medication. – Addiction involves compulsive drug-seeking behavior and use despite harm. In a hospice setting, tolerance and dependence are expected and should not be confused with addiction.
B. The client is experiencing episodes of confusion. – While morphine may cause confusion, especially in elderly or very ill clients, this does not explain the need for a higher dose for pain relief.
C. The client developed a tolerance to the medication. – Tolerance occurs when the body becomes accustomed to a drug, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect. This is common with long-term opioid use for chronic or terminal pain.
D. The client has not been taking the medication properly. – There is no indication of noncompliance. The need for a higher dose is more accurately attributed to tolerance, especially in terminal illness.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Perform a 12 lead EKG – A 12-lead electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG) is the most appropriate and immediate diagnostic tool to assess for myocardial infarction (MI). It can detect ST segment changes, T wave inversions, or Q waves that indicate ischemia or infarction.
B. Check the patient's blood pressure – While important for overall assessment, blood pressure alone cannot confirm or rule out an MI.
C. Auscultate the patient's heart sounds – This may reveal abnormalities (e.g., S3, murmurs), but it is not diagnostic for MI.
D. Determine if the pain radiates to the left arm – Radiation of pain is a classic symptom of MI, but it is subjective and not sufficient to confirm the diagnosis without further diagnostic tests like an EKG.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.