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 B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While it’s important to reassure the patient, saying “It’s uncertain if your smoking led to the cancer” might be misleading. Smoking is a major risk factor for lung cancer, but it’s also true that not everyone who smokes gets lung cancer, and not everyone who gets lung cancer has smoked.
Choice B rationale
This response validates the patient’s feelings and opens up a dialogue about their specific fears. It allows the nurse to provide targeted education and reassurance.
Choice C rationale
Asking “Do you feel guilty because you used to smoke?” might make the patient feel more guilty or judged. It’s better to provide support and understanding.
Choice D rationale
While it’s true that fear is a normal reaction and that the healthcare team is there to support the patient, this response doesn’t address the patient’s specific concerns or feelings of guilt.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Written competency exams can assess theoretical knowledge and understanding of procedures, but they may not accurately reflect practical skills or performance under real-life conditions.
Choice B rationale
Insence training, while potentially beneficial for enhancing certain skills, may not be the most effective method for improving confidence and performance in response to a “code”. It lacks the realism and immediacy of a code situation.
Choice C rationale
Simulation-based mock codes provide a safe environment where staff can practice their skills, learn from their mistakes, and improve their performance without risk to patients. They can enhance confidence, competence, and performance in real code situations.
Choice D rationale
Peer-to-peer feedback sessions can provide valuable insights and foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement. However, they may not offer the same level of structured, targeted skill development and performance improvement as simulation-based mock codes.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.