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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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Agoraphobia is marked by the fear of being in situations where escape may be difficult or help unavailable in case of panic-like symptoms. It is not characterized by generalized worry.

B. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is characterized by excessive anxiety and worry that is difficult to control and is associated with a variety of circumstances. Individuals with GAD often experience chronic worry about multiple life domains, without a specific focus.

C. Separation anxiety disorder involves excessive fear of being separated from loved ones or familiar environments, which is different from generalized worry about multiple life events.

D. Panic disorder involves recurrent panic attacks that are not necessarily related to generalized anxiety or worry about various life situations.

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 nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing excessive anxiety and worry in response to a variety of circumstances, and is unable to control their sense of worry. The nurse should identity that these manifestations indicate which of the following?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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