The nurse provides care to a patient admitted with a respiratory disorder. Which laboratory finding is most concerning?

Oxygen saturation 96%

Blood pH 7.32

Hemoglobin level 12 mg/dL

PaO2 80 mm Hg

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Oxygen saturation 96%. This is a normal oxygen saturation level, so it is not a concern.

B. Blood pH 7.32. A pH below 7.35 indicates acidosis, which is concerning in a patient with a respiratory disorder, as it may indicate respiratory failure.

C. Hemoglobin level 12 mg/dL. This is a normal hemoglobin level for most adults and does not indicate a critical problem.

D. PaO2 80 mm Hg. While slightly lower than the normal range (normal is 80–100 mm Hg), this is not the most concerning finding.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Administer oxygen at 2 L/min.: Oxygen is necessary, but raising the head of the bed first can improve oxygenation more effectively and quickly.

B. Encourage coughing and deep breathing.: While effective, this should be done after positioning the patient appropriately to optimize oxygenation.

C. Raise the head of the bed.: The priority intervention for low oxygen saturation is to improve ventilation and perfusion by raising the head of the bed. This enhances lung expansion, making it easier for the patient to breathe.

D. Administer prescribed analgesic medication.: Pain management is important, but it is not the priority when oxygen levels are dangerously low.

A. Numbness of fingers B. Dry skin C. Abdominal pain D. Lethargy

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Numbness of fingers. Numbness or tingling (paresthesia) is more common in respiratory alkalosis due to low CO₂ levels causing calcium binding changes.

B. Dry skin. Respiratory acidosis does not typically cause dry skin; rather, it may cause cyanosis or flushed skin due to CO₂ retention.

C. Abdominal pain. Abdominal pain is more commonly seen in metabolic acidosis, not respiratory acidosis.

D. Lethargy. Respiratory acidosis leads to CO₂ retention, which depresses the central nervous system, causing lethargy, confusion, and even coma in severe cases.

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The nurse provides care to a patient admitted with a respiratory disorder. Which laboratory finding is most concerning?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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