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Which blood gas result will the nurse expect to observe in a patient with respiratory alkalosis?

A.

pH 7.53, PaCO2 30 mm Hg, HCO3-24 mEq/L

B.

pH 7.35, PaCO2 35 mm Hg. HCO3-26 mEq/L

C.

pH 7.25, PaCO2 48 mm Hg. HCO3-23 mEq/L

D.

pH 7.60, PaCO2 40 mm Hg, HCO3-30 mEq/L

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A.    pH: Elevated (above 7.45), indicating alkalosis. PaCO₂: Decreased (below 35 mm Hg), reflecting hyperventilation and CO₂ loss. HCO₃⁻: Usually normal (around 24 mEq/L) or slightly decreased, as metabolic compensation might not be immediate. The results here show an elevated pH, decreased PaCO₂, and normal HCO₃⁻, which are consistent with respiratory alkalosis.
B.    pH: Decreased (acidic), indicating acidosis. PaCO₂: Slightly elevated (near normal), not indicative of respiratory alkalosis. HCO₃⁻: Normal (around 26 mEq/L), suggesting no significant metabolic component or compensation. This profile does not match respiratory alkalosis; it is more consistent with a mixed or different type of acid-base imbalance.
C.    pH: Decreased (acidic), indicating acidosis. PaCO₂: Elevated (above 45 mm Hg), indicating CO₂ retention, which is characteristic of respiratory acidosis, not alkalosis. HCO₃⁻: Normal (around 23 mEq/L), showing no significant metabolic compensation or disturbance. This profile indicates respiratory acidosis rather than respiratory alkalosis.
D.    pH: Elevated (alkaline), which is consistent with alkalosis. PaCO₂: Normal (around 40 mm Hg), indicating that CO₂ levels are not the primary cause of the alkalosis. HCO₃⁻: Elevated (above 28 mEq/L), suggesting a metabolic alkalosis or compensation for a respiratory acidosis, but not respiratory alkalosis alone.
 


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Hyperventilation can lead to dizziness and lightheadedness, and it's not a recommended method for preventing atelectasis.
B. This statement indicates understanding of the importance of deep breathing exercises in preventing atelectasis.
C. This statement shows a misunderstanding of atelectasis. Anyone can develop atelectasis, especially after surgery.
D. This statement is incorrect, but it focuses on treatment rather than prevention.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Decreased renal function is a common age-related change that can significantly increase postoperative complications, such as fluid and electrolyte imbalances, and medication toxicity.
B. Seasonal allergies are not specifically related to postoperative risks and can affect people of all ages.
C. Family history of cancer is a general health risk factor, not specifically postoperative.

D. Hypertension is a common chronic condition that can affect people of all ages and while it can increase postoperative risks, it's not specific to older adults.

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