The nurse is caring for a patient who presents with metabolic alkalosis. Upon assessing the patient, which clinical manifestation will the nurse expect to find?
Kussmaul breathing
Positive Chvostek sign
Hematemesis
Distended jugular vein
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Kussmaul breathing is a sign of metabolic acidosis, not metabolic alkalosis. It is characterized by deep, labored breathing as the body tries to expel excess carbon dioxide.
Choice B reason: Positive Chvostek sign is an indication of hypocalcemia, which can be associated with metabolic alkalosis. It is a facial muscle twitch that occurs when the facial nerve is tapped.
Choice C reason: Hematemesis, or vomiting blood, is not a clinical manifestation of metabolic alkalosis. It is more related to gastrointestinal bleeding.
Choice D reason: Distended jugular veins are more commonly associated with conditions such as heart failure and fluid overload, not specifically with metabolic alkalosis.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Normal blood pressure and deep respirations do not necessarily indicate that hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome is resolving. Deep respirations, also known as Kussmaul respirations, can occur in response to severe hyperglycemia.
Choice B reason: Increased alertness and a normal heart rhythm suggest that the patient's neurological status and cardiovascular system are stabilizing, which are positive indicators that the treatment is effective in managing hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome.
Choice C reason: High urine specific gravity and normal temperature do not directly indicate the effectiveness of treatment for hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome. High urine specific gravity can result from dehydration.
Choice D reason: A blood glucose level of 250 mg/dL with disorientation still indicates poorly controlled hyperglycemia and ongoing metabolic disturbance, which means the treatment is not yet effective.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: The lab results pH 7.26, PaCO2 59, HCO3 30 indicate respiratory acidosis with partial compensation. This finding is inconsistent with the expected results for a patient with small bowel obstruction and nasogastric suction, which typically leads to metabolic alkalosis due to loss of gastric acid.
Choice B reason: The lab results pH 7.46, PaCO2 30, HCO3 24 suggest a slightly alkaline state with normal bicarbonate levels, which could indicate respiratory alkalosis with compensation. However, for a patient with a small bowel obstruction and nasogastric suction, this is less likely.
Choice C reason: The lab results pH 7.48, PaCO2 42, HCO3 29 indicate metabolic alkalosis. This is a common finding in patients with small bowel obstruction who have been on nasogastric suction, which removes stomach acids and leads to an increase in bicarbonate levels. The elevated pH and bicarbonate levels are consistent with this condition.
Choice D reason: The lab results pH 7.31, PaCO2 34, HCO3 18 indicate metabolic acidosis. This finding is inconsistent with the expected results for a patient with small bowel obstruction and nasogastric suction, which typically leads to
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