A client's arterial blood gas (ABG) results show a pH of 7.30, PaCO2 of 40 mmHg, HCO3- of 20 mEq/L. These findings indicate which of the following conditions?
Respiratory acidosis
Respiratory alkalosis
Metabolic acidosis, uncompensated
Metabolic alkalosis, uncompensated
The Correct Answer is C
A. Respiratory acidosis: Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a high PaCO2 level due to hypoventilation or impaired lung function, which is not reflected in this ABG result. The pH of 7.30 indicates acidosis, but the normal PaCO2 of 40 mmHg suggests it is not respiratory in nature.
B. Respiratory alkalosis: Respiratory alkalosis involves a decrease in PaCO2, which is not present here. The PaCO2 of 40 mmHg is within normal range, ruling out this possibility.
C. Metabolic acidosis, uncompensated: The low HCO3- of 20 mEq/L and the pH of 7.30 indicate metabolic acidosis. Since there is no compensation by the lungs (i.e., PaCO2 is not lowered), this is considered uncompensated metabolic acidosis.
D. Metabolic alkalosis, uncompensated: Metabolic alkalosis would involve an elevated HCO3- level and a higher pH, which is not seen in this case. The HCO3- is low, supporting metabolic acidosis, not alkalosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Cyanosis: Cyanosis is a late sign of hypoxemia, not specifically hypercapnia. It indicates poor oxygenation of tissues but does not directly reflect elevated carbon dioxide levels in the blood.
B. Arrhythmias: Arrhythmias may occur in respiratory failure due to hypoxemia or acid-base disturbances. However, they are not the most specific indicator of severe hypercapnia and can result from a range of metabolic or cardiac causes.
C. Asterixis: Asterixis, or "flapping tremor," is a neurologic manifestation of severe hypercapnia and altered mental status. It results from elevated CO₂ levels affecting brain function and is often seen in CO₂ narcosis or advanced respiratory failure.
D. Tachycardia: Tachycardia is a common compensatory response to hypoxia or hypercapnia, but it is nonspecific. It can be seen in many conditions and is not a definitive sign of severe carbon dioxide retention.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Take small bites of food: Taking small bites of food is important for clients with Parkinson's disease to reduce the risk of choking and aspiration. It allows better control of swallowing and reduces the likelihood of difficulty swallowing, which is common in Parkinson’s disease due to dysphagia (swallowing difficulty).
B. Liquids should be thickened: While thickening liquids is often recommended for clients with swallowing difficulties, it is not universally required for all Parkinson's patients. It would depend on the specific swallowing assessment and the client’s condition. Therefore, this is not an essential recommendation for every client.
C. Sit slightly forward when eating: Sitting slightly forward helps clients with Parkinson's disease improve their swallowing and reduce the risk of aspiration. This posture encourages a safer swallowing reflex and reduces the likelihood of food or liquids going into the airway.
D. Chew food thoroughly before swallowing: Thoroughly chewing food is vital for clients with Parkinson’s disease because it reduces the risk of choking and aspiration. This allows the food to break down into smaller pieces, making it easier to swallow and less likely to cause blockages in the throat.
E. Avoid having conversations while eating: While it is important to focus on eating to prevent choking, there is no strict guideline that clients with Parkinson’s must avoid conversation entirely. Talking while eating may be challenging for some, but it is not universally harmful. However, the client should be reminded to focus on swallowing to prevent aspiration.
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