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

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Hormonal therapy may be used for PMDD but is not a distinguishing factor from PMS.

B. PMDD involves both mood and physical symptoms, unlike PMS, which primarily involves physical symptoms.

C. PMDD symptoms may persist through the beginning of menstruation, unlike PMS, which typically resolves with the onset of the period.

D. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a more severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) characterized by mood disturbances, irritability, and functional impairment that significantly affect a person’s ability to function in daily life.

A. A mother who had a healthy pregnancy and delivery B. A first-time mother with a supportive partner C. A mother with a history of depression and minimal social support D. A mother with no family history of mental illness

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. A mother with a healthy pregnancy and delivery has a lower risk, though postpartum depression can still occur, it is not as likely as in cases with more risk factors.

B. A first-time mother with a supportive partner has protective factors such as a strong support system, reducing the risk of postpartum depression.

C. A history of depression and minimal social support are significant risk factors for postpartum depression. Previous mental health issues increase the likelihood of postpartum mood disorders, and lack of support makes coping more difficult.

D. A lack of a family history of mental illness does not eliminate the risk of postpartum depression, especially if other risk factors, such as previous depression or limited support, are present.

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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?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client with Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) asks how her condition differs from premenstrual syndrome (PMS). What is the nurse's best response?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Which patient is at the highest risk of developing postpartum depression?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse at a walk-in mental health clinic is assessing a client experiencing severe anxiety. The nurse should recognize the client might exhibit which of the following manifestations?

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