A nurse is caring for a client undergoing diagnostic evaluation for suspected pulmonary edema. Which finding on an arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis is consistent with pulmonary edema?
Decreased pH (acidosis)
Elevated partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2)
Decreased partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2)
Increased bicarbonate (HCO3-) levels
The Correct Answer is A
A) Correct. Pulmonary edema can lead to impaired gas exchange, resulting in respiratory acidosis, characterized by a decreased pH on ABG analysis.
B) Incorrect. Pulmonary edema typically leads to decreased oxygenation, so an elevated PaO2 would not be consistent with this condition.
C) Incorrect. A decreased PaCO2 is more commonly associated with respiratory alkalosis and is not a primary finding in pulmonary edema.
D) Incorrect. Increased bicarbonate (HCO3-) levels are more indicative of metabolic alkalosis and are not typically associated with pulmonary edema.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Nausea and vomiting are not typically associated with pulmonary edema.
B) Correct. Orthopnea, or difficulty breathing when lying flat, is a common symptom of pulmonary edema related to heart failure.
C) Incorrect. While sweating and diaphoresis can occur in response to respiratory distress, they are not specific to pulmonary edema.
D) Incorrect. Sharp, stabbing chest pain is not a common manifestation of pulmonary edema but may occur with other cardiac or respiratory conditions.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Incorrect. A persistent dry cough is not a typical symptom of acute pulmonary edema.
B) Incorrect. Productive cough with green sputum is more suggestive of a respiratory infection than acute pulmonary edema.
C) Correct. Sudden-onset severe shortness of breath, often described as "air hunger," is a hallmark symptom of acute pulmonary edema.
D) Incorrect. Sharp, stabbing chest pain is not a primary symptom of acute pulmonary edema but may be present in some cases.
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