A client in the emergency department reports that he has been vomiting excessively for the last 2 days. His arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis shows a pH of 7.50, the partial pressure of arterial carbon dioxide (PaCO2) of 43 mm Hg, partial pressure of arterial oxygen (PaO2) of 75 mm Hg, and bicarbonate (HCO3) of 42 mEq/L. Based on these findings, the nurse documents that the client is experiencing which type of acid-base imbalance?
Metabolic Alkalosis
Respiratory Alkalosis
Respiratory Acidosis
Metabolic Acidosis
The Correct Answer is A
A. Metabolic Alkalosis:
pH: Elevated (alkalotic).
PaCO2: Normal or slightly decreased (compensation may or may not be present).
HCO3: Elevated.
Explanation: Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an excess of bicarbonate (HCO3) in the blood, leading to an elevated pH. In this case, the elevated pH and HCO3 levels suggest that the primary imbalance is metabolic alkalosis.
B. Respiratory Alkalosis:
pH: Elevated (alkalotic).
PaCO2: Decreased (due to hyperventilation, which blows off CO2).
HCO3: Normal or slightly decreased (compensation).
Explanation: Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by low levels of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) due to hyperventilation. However, in the provided ABG, the PaCO2 is not significantly decreased, suggesting that respiratory alkalosis is not the primary issue.
C. Respiratory Acidosis:
pH: Decreased (acidotic).
PaCO2: Increased (due to inadequate ventilation).
HCO3: Normal or slightly elevated (compensation).
Explanation: Respiratory acidosis is characterized by an increase in carbon dioxide (PaCO2) levels. In this case, the PaCO2 is within the normal range, indicating that respiratory acidosis is not the primary problem.
D. Metabolic Acidosis:
pH: Decreased (acidotic).
PaCO2: Normal or slightly decreased (compensation).
HCO3: Decreased.
Explanation: Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decrease in bicarbonate (HCO3) levels. In this ABG, the HCO3 is elevated, ruling out metabolic acidosis as the primary issue.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "When I went to the restroom the last few days, my urine smelled odd."
Changes in the smell of urine can be associated with various conditions, including diabetes. However, it's not a specific symptom.
B. "I've always been a fan of sweet foods, but lately I'm turned off by them."
A change in taste preferences may not be directly related to diabetes. It's not a typical symptom.
C. "No matter how much sleep I get, it seems to take me hours to wake up."
Fatigue and difficulty waking up are general symptoms that can be caused by various factors, including diabetes. However, it's not specific to diabetes alone.
D. "Lately, I drink a lot, but I can't seem to quench my thirst."
Excessive thirst (polydipsia) and increased urination (polyuria) are classic symptoms of diabetes, suggesting elevated blood sugar levels.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "I will make sure I call the diabetes educator each time I adjust my insulin dose."
This statement suggests a reliance on insulin adjustment and implies frequent contact with the diabetes educator. However, it doesn't address the primary treatment for type 2 diabetes.
B. "I read that a pancreas transplant will provide a cure for my diabetes."
This statement mentions a pancreas transplant, which is a significant and rare intervention typically reserved for severe cases of diabetes. However, it's not considered the primary treatment for type 2 diabetes.
C. "I will make sure to follow the weight loss plan designed by the dietitian."
This statement aligns with a key aspect of managing type 2 diabetes, as weight management, along with diet and exercise, is a primary approach. Lifestyle modifications, including weight loss, are often part of the primary treatment plan.
D. "I will take my oral anti-diabetic agents when my morning blood sugar is high."
This statement indicates an understanding of the importance of oral anti-diabetic agents, which are commonly used in the management of type 2 diabetes. Timing medication based on blood sugar levels is a key aspect of treatment.
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