Colleen, a 19 year old Freshman, was drinking alcohol at a frat party. She stupors, falls and hits her head on the ground. Her friend Julie dials "911" because Colleen is now unconscious, depressed ventilation (shallow and slow respirations), rapid heart rate, and is profusely bleeding from both ears. Which primary acid-base imbalance is Colleen at risk for if medical attention is not provided?
Metabolic Acidosis
Respiratory Acidosis
Respiratory Alkalosis
Metabolic Alkalosis
The Correct Answer is B
Respiratory acidosis is a primary acid-base imbalance that occurs when there is an excess of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the body due to impaired ventilation or inadequate removal of CO2 from the lungs. In this case, Colleen's depressed ventilation, indicated by shallow and slow respirations, can lead to inadequate elimination of CO2 from her body. The excessive CO2 levels can result in an accumulation of carbonic acid (H2CO3) in the blood, leading to an increase in acidity and a decrease in pH.
The profuse bleeding from both ears indicates a potential head injury, which can lead to decreased neurological function and impaired control over the respiratory center in the brain. This can further contribute to depressed ventilation and the development of respiratory acidosis. Metabolic acidosis, characterized by a decrease in bicarbonate (HCO3-) levels or an increase in non-carbonic acids in the blood, is not the primary acid-base imbalance in this case since the scenario does not provide information indicating a primary metabolic disorder. Respiratory alkalosis, characterized by decreased levels of CO2 in the blood, leading to increased pH and alkalinity, is not the primary acid-base imbalance in this case. The depressed ventilation and associated increase in CO2 levels indicate the opposite, respiratory acidosis. Metabolic alkalosis, characterized by an increase in bicarbonate levels or a decrease in non-carbonic acids, is not the primary acid-base imbalance in this case as the scenario does not provide information indicating a primary metabolic disorder.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
To calculate the milliliters per hour (mL/hr) for the IV infusion, you divide the total volume (in milliliters) by the total time (in hours).
In this case, the total volume is 1 liter, which is equal to 1000 milliliters, and the total time is 6 hours.
So, you divide 1000 mL by 6 hours:
1000 mL / 6 hours = 166.67 mL/hr
Rounding off, the nurse will program the IV infusion device to infuse at approximately 167 mL/hr.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","G","H"]
Explanation
Low oxygen saturation: Low oxygen saturation indicates a potential respiratory compromise and should be addressed promptly to ensure adequate oxygenation and prevent further deterioration.
Previous injection drug user and alcohol misuse: Past injection drug use and alcohol misuse can have significant implications for the patient's health, including increased risk of infections, compromised immune function, and potential withdrawal symptoms. It is crucial for the nurse to be aware of these factors in order to provide appropriate care and support. Has productive cough severe enough to keep her awake: A severe productive cough that disrupts the patient's sleep suggests respiratory distress or possible worsening of the underlying condition. The nurse should assess the patient's respiratory status and implement interventions to alleviate the cough and improve rest.
Elevated temperature, pulse, and respiratory rate: An elevation in vital signs, including temperature, pulse, and respiratory rate, can indicate an infectious or inflammatory process. This warrants further assessment and intervention to manage the underlying condition. Diagnosis pneumonia: The diagnosis of pneumonia indicates a respiratory infection that requires close monitoring and appropriate treatment. The nurse should assess the patient's respiratory status, administer prescribed medications, and implement respiratory hygiene measures.
The following options are not immediate concerns or relevant assessment information:
Appointment the next day: While follow-up appointments are important, they do not require immediate attention upon receiving a hand-off report.
Marital status: Marital status is not typically an immediate concern for the nurse's assessment and care planning.
Daughter's name: The patient's family member's name is not an immediate concern or relevant assessment information for the nurse's immediate care.
Fever is present: While a fever is a symptom of an underlying condition, it is not the most critical concern.
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.