The nurse is caring for a patient with respiratory alkalosis. What will the nurse recognize as the potential cause of this acid-base imbalance?
Hypoventilation
Panic attacks
Pneumonia
Congestive heart failure
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Hypoventilation is not a cause of respiratory alkalosis. Hypoventilation leads to respiratory acidosis due to the retention of carbon dioxide (CO2). Respiratory alkalosis occurs when there is excessive exhalation of CO2, leading to a higher pH (alkaline).
Choice B reason: Panic attacks can cause respiratory alkalosis due to hyperventilation. During a panic attack, a person may breathe rapidly and deeply, leading to excessive loss of CO2. This reduces the CO2 levels in the blood and increases the pH, resulting in respiratory alkalosis.
Choice C reason: Pneumonia is more likely to cause respiratory acidosis or metabolic acidosis rather than respiratory alkalosis. Pneumonia can impair gas exchange, leading to CO2 retention and decreased oxygen levels, which are not typical triggers for respiratory alkalosis.
Choice D reason: Congestive heart failure can lead to respiratory alkalosis, but it is more commonly associated with metabolic acidosis due to poor perfusion and anaerobic metabolism. Hyperventilation in heart failure patients can lead to respiratory alkalosis, but panic attacks are a more direct and common cause.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Scattered petechiae on bilateral lower extremities are a common finding in patients with thrombocytopenia, indicating low platelet count and increased risk of bleeding. While this finding is concerning, it is not as immediate a threat as significant bleeding or bruising.
Choice B reason: Ecchymosis around the intravenous site suggests significant bleeding and bruising, which can be more urgent and requires immediate reporting. A platelet count of 10,000/mm³ is critically low, increasing the risk of spontaneous bleeding and haemorrhage. Immediate intervention is necessary to prevent further complications.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Fever is not a common side effect of albuterol. It may indicate an infection or another underlying condition that should be evaluated separately.
Choice B reason: Bruising is not associated with albuterol use. Bruising may be related to other medications or underlying conditions affecting coagulation.
Choice C reason: Polyuria, or increased urination, is not a typical side effect of albuterol. It is more commonly associated with conditions such as diabetes or diuretic use.
Choice D reason: Palpitations are a known side effect of albuterol due to its stimulating effect on the heart. Patients should be informed about this potential side effect and advised to report any persistent or severe palpitations to their healthcare provider.
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