The nurse is caring for a patient with metabolic acidosis. Which laboratory findings will the nurse expect to support this diagnosis? (Select All That Apply)
pH less than 7.35
HCO3 less than 22 mEq/L
PaCO2 greater than 45 mmHg
PaO2 less than 80 mmHg
SpO2 greater than 95%
Correct Answer : A,B,C
Choice A reason: A pH less than 7.35 indicates an acidic state, which is consistent with metabolic acidosis. The normal pH range is 7.35 to 7.45.
Choice B reason: HCO3 (bicarbonate) less than 22 mEq/L indicates a low level of bicarbonate, which is consistent with metabolic acidosis. Bicarbonate is a base, and lower levels indicate a loss of buffering capacity.
Choice C reason: PaCO2 greater than 45 mmHg is not a primary indicator of metabolic acidosis but can occur as a compensatory mechanism in response to respiratory acidosis. The primary indicators of metabolic acidosis are low pH and low bicarbonate.
Choice D reason: PaO2 less than 80 mmHg indicates hypoxemia but is not directly related to the diagnosis of metabolic acidosis. Hypoxemia can occur with various conditions, and while it may be present, it is not a defining characteristic of metabolic acidosis.
Choice E reason: SpO2 greater than 95% indicates normal oxygen saturation and is not relevant to the diagnosis of metabolic acidosis. Oxygen saturation primarily reflects respiratory function rather than acid-base balance.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Monitoring the patient's absolute neutrophil count (ANC) daily and stopping medication when the ANC is greater than 20,000 cells/uL is an essential aspect of using filgrastim safely. However, this is typically managed by the healthcare provider and not the primary action for the nurse to take for patient education. The nurse's role focuses more on educating the patient about potential side effects and self-care.
Choice B reason: Teaching the patient how to administer the medication via intramuscular is not relevant for filgrastim, as it is typically administered via subcutaneous injection. Proper administration technique is crucial for ensuring the medication's effectiveness, but this choice does not accurately reflect the standard administration method for filgrastim.
Choice C reason: Ensuring the patient understands the risk of bone pain and how to manage it is crucial for promoting safe and effective use of filgrastim. Bone pain is a common side effect of filgrastim due to the stimulation of bone marrow to produce more neutrophils. Educating the patient about this potential side effect and providing strategies for managing the pain, such as using over-the-counter pain relievers, helps improve patient comfort and adherence to the medication.
Choice D reason: Administering filgrastim as needed for symptoms of infection is not appropriate. Filgrastim is used to stimulate neutrophil production and prevent infection, rather than treating active infections. The medication should be administered according to the prescribed schedule, not based on the presence of infection symptoms.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Fruity-smelling breath is a symptom of ketoacidosis, not hypoglycemia. Ketoacidosis occurs when the body produces high levels of ketones due to a lack of insulin, leading to metabolic acidosis.
Choice B reason: Sweating and nervousness are common symptoms of hypoglycemia. Low blood glucose levels trigger the release of adrenaline, which causes these symptoms. Patients should check their blood glucose when experiencing these signs to prevent severe hypoglycemia.
Choice C reason: Nausea and vomiting are more associated with ketoacidosis. High blood glucose levels and the presence of ketones can cause gastrointestinal upset.
Choice D reason: Increased thirst and urination are also symptoms of hyperglycemia and ketoacidosis. These symptoms result from the body's attempt to eliminate excess glucose and ketones through urine.
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