A client is admitted to the medical-surgical unit with a chief complaint of prolonged vomiting over the past 24 hours. Based on the arterial blood gas (ABG) results of pH 7.5. PaCO2 36, HCO3 40, the nurse determines that the client is experiencing:
respiratory alkalosis.
respiratory acidosis.
metabolic acidosis.
metabolic alkalosis.
The Correct Answer is D
D. Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an increased pH (alkalosis) and an increased HCO3. In this case, the pH is elevated (7.5), indicating alkalosis, which supports metabolic alkalosis. The HCO3 is elevated at 40 mEq/L, which further supports metabolic alkalosis. The PaCO2 is normal or slightly low (36 mmHg), which can occur as a compensatory response to metabolic alkalosis.

A. Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by an increase in pH (alkalosis) and a decrease in PaCO2 (hypocapnia). In this scenario, the pH is elevated (7.5), which indicates alkalosis. The PaCO2 is 36 mmHg, which is within the normal range (35-45 mmHg) but slightly on the lower side (slight hypocapnia). The HCO3 is elevated at 40 mEq/L, which suggests a compensatory response by the kidneys to retain bicarbonate to counteract the alkalosis.
B. Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a decrease in pH (acidosis) and an increase in PaCO2 (hypercapnia). In this case, the pH is elevated (7.5), indicating alkalosis, which contradicts respiratory acidosis. The PaCO2 is 36 mmHg, which is normal or slightly low, not high as expected in respiratory acidosis. The elevated HCO3 (40 mEq/L) suggests a compensatory metabolic response to the alkalosis, not to acidosis.
C. Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decreased pH (acidosis) and a decreased HCO3. In this scenario, the pH is elevated (7.5), indicating alkalosis, which contradicts metabolic acidosis. The HCO3 is elevated at 40 mEq/L, indicating metabolic alkalosis rather than metabolic acidosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B.This formulation is not intended for administration through a gastrostomy tube and could be harmful to the patient. It is essential to consult with a pharmacist or physician to find a suitable alternative that is safe for administration through the gastrostomy tube
A. Ibuprofen is typically administered orally (PO) and is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract.
C. Levothyroxine is a thyroid hormone replacement medication crucial for maintaining thyroid hormone levels in individuals with hypothyroidism. It is typically administered orally in the morning on an empty stomach to ensure optimal absorption.
D. Liquid formulations are suitable for administration through gastrostomy tubes, as they are generally well-tolerated and absorbed.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. This response acknowledges the urgency of the situation and seeks clarification on the appropriate administration technique. It demonstrates readiness to follow through with the medical resident's directive while ensuring safe and effective administration.
A. This response reflects hesitation and a concern about administering a medication that the nurse did not prepare or is unfamiliar with. In a critical situation like a "code blue," timely administration of medications as directed by the medical team is crucial for patient outcomes.
C. Checking IV patency is important to ensure the medication can be administered properly. However, in a "code blue" situation where time is critical, this step might unnecessarily delay administration of the medication.
D. This response indicates willingness to follow the directive given by the medical resident. It also emphasizes the importance of documenting and obtaining proper orders after the immediate crisis has been addressed.
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