A client with a history of Addison's disease and flu-like symptoms accompanied by nausea and vomiting over the past week is brought to the facility. His wife reports that he acted confused and was extremely weak when he awoke that morning. The client's blood pressure is 90/58 mm Hg, his pulse is 116 beats/minute, and his temperature is 101° F (38.3° C). A diagnosis of acute adrenal insufficiency is made. What should the nurse expect to administer by I.V. infusion?

A. Respiratory acidosis:
This occurs when there is inadequate removal of carbon dioxide (CO2) by the respiratory system. In the case of the patient post-op from knee surgery receiving Morphine, the opioid can cause respiratory depression, leading to the retention of CO2 and the development of respiratory acidosis. Signs include a decreased respiratory rate and drowsiness.

B. Hypokalemia:
This is a condition characterized by low levels of potassium in the blood. While opioids can cause constipation, they are not directly associated with hypokalemia.

C. Metabolic acidosis:
This occurs when there is an increase in acid production or a loss of bicarbonate, leading to an imbalance in the body's acid-base status. The symptoms of metabolic acidosis are not typically associated with opioid use.

D. Respiratory alkalosis:
This occurs when there is excessive elimination of CO2, leading to decreased carbon dioxide levels in the blood. Opioids, especially in higher doses, are more likely to cause respiratory depression and acidosis rather than alkalosis. The patient's low respiratory rate and drowsiness are indicative of respiratory acidosis rather than alkalosis.

A. Respiratory acidosis:
This occurs when there is inadequate ventilation, leading to an accumulation of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood. In the context of a nasogastric tube attached to low suction, respiratory acidosis is not the primary concern. It is more associated with conditions like respiratory depression or lung diseases.

B. Metabolic acidosis:
Metabolic acidosis results from an excess of acid or a loss of bicarbonate. It is not the typical outcome of a nasogastric tube attached to low suction. Conditions like diarrhea or renal failure are more commonly associated with metabolic acidosis.

C. Respiratory alkalosis:
Respiratory alkalosis occurs when there is excessive loss of carbon dioxide from the body, often due to hyperventilation. This is not a typical consequence of a nasogastric tube attached to low suction.

D. Metabolic alkalosis:
Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an excess of bicarbonate or a loss of acid. In the given context, with the nasogastric tube attached to low suction, there is a potential loss of gastric acid, contributing to metabolic alkalosis.