What have you learned about ventilation?
Hypoventilation causes hypocapnia
Hypoventilation causes alkalosis
Hyperventilation causes acidosis
Hyperventilation causes hypocapnia
The Correct Answer is D
A. Hypoventilation causes hypocapnia: Hypoventilation leads to inadequate removal of carbon dioxide (CO₂), resulting in hypercapnia rather than hypocapnia. This occurs because decreased ventilation reduces gas exchange efficiency, allowing CO₂ to accumulate in the blood, which can cause respiratory acidosis.
B. Hypoventilation causes alkalosis: Hypoventilation leads to respiratory acidosis rather than alkalosis. When ventilation is insufficient, CO₂ builds up in the bloodstream, leading to an increase in hydrogen ion concentration and a subsequent drop in blood pH. This is commonly seen in conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), neuromuscular disorders, and opioid overdose.
C. Hyperventilation causes acidosis: Hyperventilation results in excessive elimination of CO₂, leading to a decrease in hydrogen ion concentration and an increase in blood pH, causing respiratory alkalosis rather than acidosis. Acidosis occurs when CO₂ retention leads to an increase in hydrogen ion concentration, which is the opposite of what happens with hyperventilation.
D. Hyperventilation causes hypocapnia: Hyperventilation leads to an excessive exhalation of CO₂, causing a reduction in blood CO₂ levels (hypocapnia). This can result in respiratory alkalosis, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, tingling sensations, and even syncope. It is often seen in conditions like anxiety, panic attacks, fever, or high-altitude exposure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Norepinephrine causes bronchial smooth muscle contraction and mucus secretion but it also causes high blood pressure: This statement is misleading in the context of asthma. Norepinephrine primarily acts on alpha and beta receptors, influencing blood pressure and bronchodilation but is not the main mediator in asthma pathophysiology. The focus should be on inflammation and airway responsiveness.
B. Uncontrolled inflammation leads to increased bronchial hyperresponsiveness and eventual scarring: This statement accurately describes the pathophysiologic process in asthma. Persistent inflammation in asthma can cause increased bronchial hyperresponsiveness, leading to airway narrowing and potential long-term remodeling and scarring of the airways if not controlled. Effective management is essential to prevent these adverse outcomes.
C. Immunoglobulin G causes smooth muscle contraction which will eventually weaken the respiratory muscles: Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is primarily involved in allergic reactions and asthma, and it does not directly cause smooth muscle contraction that weakens respiratory muscles.
D. The release of epinephrine leads to development of cardiac dysrhythmias: While epinephrine can have cardiovascular effects, including increased heart rate and potential for dysrhythmias, this is not directly relevant to the pathophysiology of asthma. The focus in asthma management is on controlling airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction rather than on cardiac issues.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Assist with a chest tube insertion: A gunshot wound to the chest with a one-way valve pleural rupture indicates a tension pneumothorax, a life-threatening condition. Air enters the pleural space with each breath but cannot escape, leading to increased intrathoracic pressure, lung collapse, and mediastinal shift, which can compromise venous return and cardiac output. Immediate chest tube insertion or needle decompression is necessary to relieve pressure and restore normal lung function.
B. Give the patient low-flow oxygen: Oxygen therapy may help improve oxygenation, but it does not address the underlying issue of trapped air causing intrathoracic pressure buildup. Without intervention to release the trapped air, respiratory distress and cardiovascular collapse can occur.
C. Assess for clubbing of fingernails: Clubbing is a sign of chronic hypoxia seen in long-term respiratory diseases but is not relevant in the acute management of a tension pneumothorax. The priority is to relieve the trapped air and restore normal lung expansion.
D. Draw arterial gases: While arterial blood gases can help assess oxygenation and ventilation status, they do not treat the underlying tension pneumothorax. Immediate decompression is required before diagnostic tests to prevent rapid deterioration and potential cardiac arrest.
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