A client is admited to the emergency room with a respiratory rate of 7/min. Arterial blood gases (ABG) reveal the following values. Which of the following is an appropriate analysis of the ABGs?
Metabolic alkalosis
Respiratory acidosis
Metabolic acidosis
Respiratory alkalosis
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A: Metabolic alkalosis is incorrect because it is characterized by a high pH and a high HCO3, not a low pH and a normal HCO3. Metabolic alkalosis occurs when there is a loss of metabolic acids or an excess of bicarbonate in the body, such as from vomiting, gastric suctioning, or diuretic therapy.
Choice B: Respiratory acidosis is correct because it is characterized by a low pH and a high PaCO2. Respiratory acidosis occurs when there is impaired gas exchange or hypoventilation, resulting in accumulation of carbon dioxide in the blood. This can be caused by conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, asthma, or chest trauma.
Choice C: Metabolic acidosis is incorrect because it is characterized by a low pH and a low HCO3, not a low pH and a normal HCO3. Metabolic acidosis occurs when there is an excess of metabolic acids in the body, such as lactic acid, ketoacids, or salicylates.
Choice D: Respiratory alkalosis is incorrect because it is characterized by a high pH and a low PaCO2, not a low pH and a high PaCO2. Respiratory alkalosis occurs when there is excessive loss of carbon dioxide through hyperventilation, such as in anxiety, fever, or aspirin overdose.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: Hypertension is incorrect because it is not a common complication of hypocalcemia, which is a low level of calcium in the blood. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can be caused by conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, or preeclampsia.
Choice B: Drug toxicity is incorrect because it is not directly related to hypocalcemia, although some drugs can affect the calcium level in the blood. For example, loop diuretics can increase the urinary excretion of calcium, while bisphosphonates can inhibit the bone resorption of calcium.
Choice C: Other electrolyte disturbances is correct because hypocalcemia can be associated with other imbalances of electrolytes, such as magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. For example, hypomagnesemia, or low magnesium level, can impair the secretion and action of parathyroid hormone, which regulates calcium balance.
Hyperphosphatemia, or high phosphorus level, can bind to calcium and lower its availability in the blood. Hypokalemia, or low potassium level, can increase the renal excretion of calcium.
Choice D: Visual disturbances is incorrect because it is not a typical manifestation of hypocalcemia, although severe hypocalcemia can affect the nervous system and cause confusion, hallucinations, or seizures. Visual disturbances can be caused by conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy.

Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: Corticosteroid is incorrect because it does not directly affect the potassium level in the blood, although it can cause sodium and water retention, which can dilute the potassium concentration. Corticosteroid is a type of anti- inflammatory medication that can be used to treat conditions such as asthma, arthritis, or allergic reactions.
Choice B: Narcotic is incorrect because it does not directly affect the potassium level in the blood, although it can cause respiratory depression, which can lead to respiratory acidosis and hyperkalemia, or high potassium level. Narcotic is a type of analgesic medication that can be used to treat moderate to severe pain.
Choice C: Thiazide diuretic is correct because it is a type of medication that increases urine output and sodium excretion, but also causes potassium loss in the urine. Thiazide diuretic can be used to treat conditions such as hypertension, edema, or heart failure.
Choice D: Muscle relaxer is incorrect because it does not directly affect the potassium level in the blood, although it can cause muscle weakness, which can mimic the symptoms of hypokalemia. Muscle relaxer is a type of medication that can be used to treat conditions such as muscle spasms, back pain, or fibromyalgia.
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