The nurse reviews the arterial blood gas results of a client and notes the following:
pH 7.45, [normal range: 7.35-7.45]
Paco2 of 30 mm Hg (30 mmol/L), [normal range: 35-45]
HCO3- of 20 mEq/L (20 mmol/L), [normal range: 22-26]
Which condition would the nurse analyze these results to indicate?
Metabolic alkalosis
Metabolic acidosis
Respiratory alkalosis
Respiratory acidosis
Metabolic acidosis
The Correct Answer is C
A. Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and a high HCO3- level; this does not match the provided values.
B. Metabolic acidosis would show a low pH and a low HCO3-, which does not match the findings.
C. The pH is high (7.45) while the Paco2 is low (30 mm Hg), indicating respiratory alkalosis. The low HCO3- could be a compensatory mechanism but does not change the primary interpretation of respiratory alkalosis.
D. Respiratory acidosis would be indicated by a low pH and a high Paco2, which is not the case here.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Providing a safe and comfortable environment and applying critical thinking involves both objective and subjective data collection, not just one type.
B. While family members can contribute to patient care, the professional responsibilities of providing a safe environment and critical thinking in assessments fall to trained healthcare providers.
C. This process encompasses both subjective and objective data, as critical thinking requires integrating multiple types of information.
D. The actions described are essential professional responsibilities of trained healthcare providers, who must ensure a safe environment, apply critical thinking, and identify patient cues effectively.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. In the anterior chest assessment, auscultation usually follows inspection and is typically done before percussion.
B. In the neck assessment, the nurse may inspect and then auscultate (e.g., carotid arteries) before palpation.
C. In the heart assessment, auscultation follows inspection but may not involve percussion.
D. In the abdomen, the correct order is to inspect, auscultate, and then percuss to assess bowel sounds effectively before creating additional disturbances with percussion.
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