A client has the following arterial blood gas (ABG) results: pH 7.51, PaCO2 39 mm Hg, HCO3 32 mEq/L. How would the nurse interpret these results?
Normal values: pH: 7.35-7.45, PaCO2: 35-45 mm Hg, HCO3: 22-26 mEq/L

Uncompensated metabolic alkalosis

Uncompensated respiratory acidosis

Uncompensated metabolic acidosis

Uncompensated respiratory alkalosis

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A reason: The ABG results show an elevated pH and HCO3, which are indicative of metabolic alkalosis. The PaCO2 is within the normal range, suggesting that it is uncompensated.

Choice B reason: Respiratory acidosis would be indicated by an elevated PaCO2 and a decreased pH, which is not the case here.

Choice C reason: Metabolic acidosis would be indicated by a decreased pH and HCO3, which is not consistent with the given results.

Choice D reason: Respiratory alkalosis would be indicated by a decreased PaCO2 and an increased pH, which is not consistent with the given results.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A reason: Petechiae and bruising could be related to low platelet counts or clotting issues, but they are not directly indicated by the provided lab values.

Choice B reason: Jaundice and pruritus are symptoms associated with liver disease but are not specifically indicated by the lab values provided.

Choice C reason: Dyspnea and fatigue could be symptoms of many conditions, including liver disease, but they are not directly indicated by the lab values provided.

Choice D reason: Asterixis, a flapping tremor of the hands, and confusion are signs of hepatic encephalopathy, which can be associated with elevated serum ammonia levels, as indicated by the lab results.

A. Serum lactate level 3.9 mmol/L (normal range: 0.5-2 mmol/L) B. Vital signs: Temperature 100°F, Heart rate 88 bpm, Respiratory rate 22 breaths/min, Blood pressure 124/72 mmHg C. Pulse oximetry 96% on oxygen at 2 L/min via nasal cannula D. Breath sounds with rhonchi bilaterally

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason: The serum lactate level of 3.9 mmol/L is significantly higher than the normal range of 0.5-2 mmol/L. This is a critical value to report as it indicates a high likelihood of sepsis, which is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate intervention. Elevated lactate levels suggest that the tissues are not adequately oxygenated, a state known as tissue hypoxia, which is a hallmark of sepsis.

Choice B reason: While the vital signs show a slight fever (100°F), the heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure are within normal limits for an adult and do not indicate an immediate life-threatening condition.

Choice C reason: A pulse oximetry reading of 96% on supplemental oxygen is within the acceptable range, indicating adequate oxygen saturation and not a direct sign of sepsis.

Choice D reason: The presence of rhonchi bilaterally suggests airway obstruction due to mucus, which can be associated with pneumonia. However, this finding alone does not carry the same immediate risk of morbidity and mortality as an elevated lactate level indicative of sepsis.

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A client has the following arterial blood gas (ABG) results: pH 7.51, PaCO2 39 mm Hg, HCO3 32 mEq/L. How would the nurse interpret these results? Normal values: pH: 7.35-7.45, PaCO2: 35-45 mm Hg, HCO3: 22-26 mEq/L

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

The nurse is assessing a client admitted for treatment of pneumonia and possible sepsis. Which information is most important for the nurse to report?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A client has the following arterial blood gas (ABG) results: pH 7.51, PaCO2 39 mm Hg, HCO3 32 mEq/L. How would the nurse interpret these results? Normal values: pH: 7.35-7.45, PaCO2: 35-45 mm Hg, HCO3: 22-26 mEq/L

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A client has the following arterial blood gas (ABG) results: pH 7.51, PaCO2 39 mm Hg, HCO3 32 mEq/L. How would the nurse interpret these results?
Normal values: pH: 7.35-7.45, PaCO2: 35-45 mm Hg, HCO3: 22-26 mEq/L