A client's arterial blood gas (ABG) reads: pH 7.18, PaCO2 54 mm Hg, HCO3 26 mEq/L. What condition does the nurse recognize may contribute to the development of this result? Normal values: pH: 7.35-7.45, PaCO2: 35-45 mm Hg, HCO3: 22-26 mEq/L
Prolonged vomiting
COPD
Chronic renal failure
Anxiety and hyperventilation
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Prolonged vomiting typically leads to metabolic alkalosis due to the loss of gastric acid, which is not consistent with the ABG results showing acidosis.
Choice B reason: COPD can lead to respiratory acidosis, as indicated by the elevated PaCO2 and low pH in the ABG results, making it a likely contributor to these findings.
Choice C reason: Chronic renal failure can lead to metabolic acidosis, but the HCO3 level is within the normal range, which does not support this as the primary condition.
Choice D reason: Anxiety and hyperventilation usually result in respiratory alkalosis due to the excessive exhalation of CO2, which is the opposite of what the ABG results show.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Petechiae are small red or purple spots caused by bleeding into the skin, typically associated with platelet disorders, and are not a direct indicator of SBP.
Choice B reason: Increased abdominal pain is a common symptom of SBP, as the condition causes inflammation and irritation of the peritoneum, which can lead to significant discomfort.
Choice C reason: Jaundice is a sign of liver dysfunction but is not specific to SBP. It results from high levels of bilirubin in the blood and can occur in various liver diseases.
Choice D reason: Blood in emesis (vomiting) may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, which can be a complication of cirrhosis but is not specific to SBP.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Petechiae and bruising could be related to low platelet counts or clotting issues, but they are not directly indicated by the provided lab values.
Choice B reason: Jaundice and pruritus are symptoms associated with liver disease but are not specifically indicated by the lab values provided.
Choice C reason: Dyspnea and fatigue could be symptoms of many conditions, including liver disease, but they are not directly indicated by the lab values provided.
Choice D reason: Asterixis, a flapping tremor of the hands, and confusion are signs of hepatic encephalopathy, which can be associated with elevated serum ammonia levels, as indicated by the lab results.
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