A nurse is analyzing arterial blood gas results for a client diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). What abnormal finding should the nurse anticipate?
Increased carbon dioxide.
Increased pH.
Decreased alveolar function.
Increased arterial oxygen.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
In a client diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), an arterial blood gas (ABG) test would typically show an increased level of carbon dioxide (PaCO2)56. This is because COPD affects the ability of the lungs to expel carbon dioxide, leading to its buildup in the blood.
Choice B rationale
An increased pH is not typically seen in COPD. In fact, due to the increased carbon dioxide (which is acidic), the pH may be lower, indicating respiratory acidosis.
Choice C rationale
Decreased alveolar function is a characteristic of COPD, but it is not something that would be directly measured in an ABG test.
Choice D rationale
An increased arterial oxygen (PaO2) is not typically seen in COPD. In fact, due to the impaired gas exchange, PaO2 may be lower.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The initial assessment finding in a client diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism (PE) is typically dyspnea and anxiety. This is because a PE can block blood flow in the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing (dyspnea). The sudden onset of this symptom can cause significant anxiety in the patient.
Choice B rationale
An altered level of consciousness is not typically an initial finding in PE. While severe cases can lead to decreased oxygen levels in the blood, causing confusion or loss of consciousness, these are not usually initial symptoms.
Choice C rationale
Wheezing in lung bases is not a typical initial finding in PE. Wheezing is more commonly associated with conditions that cause narrowing of the airways, such as asthma or COPD12.
Choice D rationale
While an increased pulse and respiratory rate can occur in PE due to the body’s attempt to compensate for decreased oxygen in the blood, they are not the most specific initial findings. Dyspnea and anxiety are more characteristic initial symptoms of PE12.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A chocolate milkshake may be soothing, but it is not the best choice for a patient with bacterial pharyngitis due to its high sugar content, which can promote bacterial growth.
Choice B rationale
Chicken noodle soup is a good choice as it is soothing, easy to swallow, and provides necessary nutrients.
Choice C rationale
Vanilla ice cream, while soothing, is not the best choice due to its high sugar content.
Choice D rationale
Fruit-flavored popsicles, while soothing, are not the best choice due to their high sugar content.
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