A 25-year-old patient with generalized anxiety disorder presents to the ED with shortness of breath, dizziness, and tingling in the fingers. The nurse reviews the ABG results: pH: 7.50, PaCO2: 30 mmHg HCO3: 24 mEq/L. What is the most likely acid-base imbalance?
Respiratory acidosis
Metabolic alkalosis
Respiratory alkalosis
Metabolic acidosis
The Correct Answer is C
A. Respiratory acidosis would present with a low pH (acidotic) and a high PaCO2, which is not the case here.
B. Metabolic alkalosis would be suggested by an elevated pH and elevated HCO3, but here, the bicarbonate level is normal (24 mEq/L).
C. Respiratory alkalosis is indicated by a pH of 7.50 (alkalosis) and a PaCO2 of 30 mmHg, which is lower than the normal range (35-45 mmHg). This low PaCO2 suggests that the patient is hyperventilating, likely due to anxiety, which causes the body to excrete too much CO2.
D. Metabolic acidosis would present with a low pH and a low bicarbonate level, neither of which are seen in this case.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Isolating the client is not helpful and may increase anxiety, potentially worsening the compulsive behaviors.
B. Setting strict limits can lead to resistance and increased anxiety, making compulsive behaviors more difficult to manage.
C. Confronting the client about the senseless nature of their compulsions is not effective and may increase anxiety, making the behaviors more intense. Instead, it is important to provide support and understanding while working with the client to reduce the impact of OCD on daily functioning.
D. Clients with OCD often perform compulsive rituals to reduce anxiety. Planning time for rituals allows the nurse to balance the need to manage the behavior with the need to provide structure and care.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist used to reverse opioid overdoses, not benzodiazepines.
B. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine, not an antagonist for benzodiazepines.
C. Protamine is used to reverse the effects of heparin (an anticoagulant), not benzodiazepines.
D. Flumazenil is a benzodiazepine antagonist used to reverse the effects of benzodiazepine overdose or sedation.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.