The client's arterial blood gases reveal the following results: pH 7.51, PaO2 80 mmHg, PaCO2 28 mmHg, HCO3 24 mEq/L, O2 saturation 92%. The nurse interprets this blood gas result as:
Table 9.9 Normal Arterial Blood Gas Values
ABG Value |
Normal Range |
PH |
7.35-7.45 |
PaCO2 |
35-45 mm Hg |
HCO3- |
22-26 mEq/L |
Base excess |
-2 to +2 |
PaO2 |
80-95 mm Hg |
SaO2 |
>95% |
respiratory alkalosis.
metabolic alkalosis.
respiratory acidosis.
metabolic acidosis.
The Correct Answer is A
A. The elevated pH and decreased PaCO2 indicate that the respiratory system is causing alkalosis, typically due to hyperventilation (excessive breathing).
B. Metabolic alkalosis would be indicated by a high pH with a normal or high HCO3. Since the HCO3 level is normal and the PaCO2 is low, this does not fit the picture of metabolic alkalosis.
C. Respiratory acidosis would be characterized by a low pH and an elevated PaCO2 due to inadequate ventilation and accumulation of carbon dioxide. Here, the pH is high, and the PaCO2 is low.
D. Metabolic acidosis would be indicated by a low pH with a low HCO3. In this case, the pH is high, and the HCO3 is normal.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Asking yes or no questions can help facilitate communication, as they require less verbal output from the client and can help the nurse understand the client’s needs or thoughts without overwhelming them
B. This option is somewhat useful, as practicing words can help the client regain some verbal skills. However, it may not be the most effective immediate intervention. Clients with expressive aphasia often struggle to produce speech rather than understand it, and they may not benefit as much from this approach without additional support from speech therapy.
C. This intervention is not beneficial for improving communication. Tracking time spent speaking could create additional pressure on the client and may contribute to frustration rather than facilitate communication. It does not address the underlying issue of expressive aphasia.
D. This is not an appropriate intervention. Changing the subject can confuse or frustrate the client further, making it more difficult for them to communicate. It does not support their efforts to express themselves and may discourage them from trying to communicate altogether.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. A calcaneal spur, or heel spur, is a bony growth on the heel bone. This condition is primarily related to foot pain and does not have a direct link to the risk of stroke. It is not relevant in assessing stroke risk.
B. This elevated blood pressure reading indicates hypertension, which is a significant risk factor for both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. Chronic high blood pressure can lead to damage of the blood vessels, making them more susceptible to rupture, thus increasing the risk of a hemorrhagic stroke.
C. A glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level of 5.9% indicates well-managed diabetes, typically within the normal range for most individuals. While uncontrolled diabetes is a risk factor for vascular disease, this level suggests adequate control and does not specifically indicate an increased risk for a hemorrhagic stroke.
D. A recent endoscopy itself does not indicate a direct risk for a hemorrhagic stroke. However, if the endoscopy was performed due to gastrointestinal bleeding or if it resulted in complications, there could be indirect implications, but this option alone does not signify an increased risk for hemorrhagic stroke.
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