A client presents with a pH of 7.25, PC02 of 40 mmHg, HCO3- of 16 mEq/L. Which of the following best describes the client's acid-base imbalance?
Metabolic alkalosis
Metabolic acidosis, uncompensated
Respiratory acidosis
Respiratory alkalosis, partially compensated
The Correct Answer is B
A. Metabolic alkalosis: This condition is characterized by an elevated pH above 7.45 and an increased bicarbonate level. In this case, the pH is low and the HCO₃⁻ is also decreased, ruling out metabolic alkalosis.
B. Metabolic acidosis, uncompensated: A pH of 7.25 indicates acidemia, and a bicarbonate level of 16 mEq/L confirms a metabolic origin. The PaCO₂ is normal at 40 mmHg, indicating that respiratory compensation has not yet occurred, making this an uncompensated metabolic acidosis.
C. Respiratory acidosis: Respiratory acidosis involves a low pH and elevated PaCO₂ due to hypoventilation. This client’s PaCO₂ is within normal range, so respiratory causes can be ruled out.
D. Respiratory alkalosis, partially compensated: This condition presents with a high pH and low PaCO₂, typically due to hyperventilation. The client has an acidic pH and a normal PaCO₂, which does not support respiratory alkalosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Pancreatic cancer typically develops from a polyp: Pancreatic cancer typically originates in the exocrine cells of the pancreas and not from polyps, which are more common in colon cancer.
B. The pancreas's location increases the risk that cancer will spread into nearby structures and blood vessels: The pancreas is located close to major blood vessels and other organs, such as the liver, which increases the likelihood that cancer will spread locally, making it difficult to treat.
C. Pancreatic cancer is distinguished based on the layers of the pancreas: Pancreatic cancer is more commonly categorized by whether it originates from the exocrine or endocrine cells, not by layers.
D. Pancreatic cancers are classified as either endocrine pancreatic cancer or exocrine pancreatic cancer: While this is true, the critical point for education is the anatomical considerations, which are highlighted in option B.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "Blood flow is altered and causes blood to pool in the legs. This statement describes venous insufficiency rather than peripheral arterial disease. In peripheral arterial disease, the problem is inadequate arterial blood flow to the extremities, rather than blood pooling.
B. "Blood flow is altered due to atherosclerosis affecting the tissues' ability to receive oxygen-rich blood." Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is caused by atherosclerosis, where plaque buildup in the arteries restricts blood flow, leading to reduced oxygen delivery to peripheral tissues. This results in symptoms like claudication and delayed wound healing.
C. "Blood flow is altered due to excessive stretching of the ventricles impairing the heart to contract."
This explanation is related to heart failure, particularly dilated cardiomyopathy, and not PAD. PAD specifically affects the peripheral arteries, not the heart's pumping ability.
D. "Blood flow is altered due to incompetent valves causing increased venous pressure."
This statement reflects the pathophysiology of chronic venous insufficiency, not PAD. In PAD, the issue lies in narrowed or blocked arteries, not valve function in veins.
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