A client who is experiencing respiratory distress is admitted with respiratory acidosis.
Which pathophysiological process supports the client's respiratory acidosis?
Carbon dioxide is converted in the kidneys for elimination.
Hyperventilation is eliminating carbon dioxide rapidly.
High levels of carbon dioxide have accumulated in the blood.
Blood oxygen levels are stimulating the respiratory rate.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Incorrect. The kidneys do play a role in acid-base balance, but they primarily eliminate acids other than carbon dioxide. They do not significantly convert carbon dioxide for elimination.
Elaboration: While the kidneys help regulate acid-base balance through reabsorption and excretion of bicarbonate and hydrogen ions, their role in carbon dioxide elimination is minimal. They primarily excrete acids like uric acid, phosphoric acid, and lactic acid.
Choice B rationale:
Incorrect. Hyperventilation would decrease carbon dioxide levels, not contribute to respiratory acidosis. Respiratory acidosis is characterized by elevated carbon dioxide levels.
Elaboration: Hyperventilation leads to rapid and excessive breathing, causing a decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the blood. This can result in respiratory alkalosis, not respiratory acidosis.
Choice C rationale:
Correct. Respiratory acidosis is caused by the accumulation of carbon dioxide in the blood. This can happen due to impaired ventilation, such as in conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, or respiratory failure.
Elaboration: Carbon dioxide is produced as a byproduct of cellular metabolism. It is normally removed from the body through exhalation. When ventilation is impaired, carbon dioxide cannot be efficiently eliminated, leading to its buildup in the blood. This excess carbon dioxide reacts with water to form carbonic acid, lowering blood pH and causing respiratory acidosis.
Choice D rationale:
Incorrect. Low blood oxygen levels (hypoxemia) can stimulate the respiratory rate, but this would not directly cause respiratory acidosis. It might lead to hyperventilation, which could potentially cause respiratory alkalosis.
Elaboration: The body's respiratory center in the brainstem regulates breathing based on blood oxygen and carbon dioxide levels. Hypoxemia triggers a compensatory increase in respiratory rate to enhance oxygen intake. However, this response does not directly contribute to respiratory acidosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Wild rice is naturally gluten-free. It is not a grain, but rather a semi-aquatic grass seed. It is safe for individuals with celiac disease to consume.
Wild rice is a good source of nutrients. It is high in fiber, protein, and antioxidants, and it contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, including manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc. These nutrients can help to support overall health and well-being.
Wild rice can be a versatile ingredient in many dishes. It can be used in salads, soups, stews, pilafs, and even desserts.
Choice B rationale:
Oatmeal is not gluten-free. It is made from oats, which are a type of cereal grain that contains gluten. Individuals with celiac disease must avoid gluten, as it can trigger an autoimmune reaction that damages the small intestine.
Even small amounts of gluten can cause harm. Consuming even a small amount of oatmeal can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, fatigue, and headache in individuals with celiac disease.
Long-term damage can occur. If individuals with celiac disease continue to consume gluten, it can lead to long-term health problems, such as malnutrition, osteoporosis, and infertility.
Choice C rationale:
Corn chips are typically gluten-free. However, it is important to check the label to be sure, as some brands may contain gluten- containing ingredients, such as wheat flour or barley malt.
Reading labels is essential. Individuals with celiac disease should always read food labels carefully to ensure that products are gluten-free.
Choice D rationale:
Potatoes are naturally gluten-free. They are a safe and healthy food choice for individuals with celiac disease.
Potatoes are a versatile and nutritious food. They are a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and other nutrients.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A Colloidal oatmeal-based lotion: Colloidal oatmeal can help to reduce itching and swelling, all while hydrating the skin. It is often used to soothe irritated skin and can be incorporated into a skincare routine through oatmeal baths or oatmeal-infused moisturizers. However, it is typically used as a complementary treatment and may not be sufficient to manage psoriasis symptoms on its own.
B Topical corticosteroids: These are an essential tool for treating inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis34. They work by reducing inflammation and slowing down the production of skin cells, which helps to alleviate symptoms such as redness, itching, and scaling. Topical corticosteroids are often the first line of treatment for mild to moderate psoriasis.

C. Topical analgesics: These are primarily used to relieve pain. While they may provide some relief from discomfort associated with psoriasis, they do not address the underlying inflammation and rapid skin cell production that characterize this condition.
D Topical antifungal: Antifungal agents are typically used to treat conditions like seborrheic dermatitis and scalp psoriasis, or in areas where psoriasis involves folds in the skin, where there is an increased potential for localized infection. However, they are not typically used as a primary treatment for psoriasis.
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