A nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for diltiazem. The nurse measures the client's vital signs and notes that the client's apical heart rate is 49/min. The nurse should prepare to administer which of the following medications?

Acute respiratory acidosis occurs when there is inadequate excretion of carbon dioxide due to respiratory dysfunction, leading to an increase in carbon dioxide levels (hypercapnia) and subsequent acidosis (decrease in pH).

Manifestations of acute respiratory acidosis include:

A. Circumoral numbness and tingling - This is associated with respiratory alkalosis, not acidosis. B. Muscle flaccidity - This is more commonly seen in hyperkalemia or conditions affecting neuromuscular transmission. C. Decreased level of consciousness - This is a key manifestation of acute respiratory acidosis due to the effects of hypercapnia on the central nervous system. D. Cool, clammy skin - This is not typically associated with acute respiratory acidosis; instead, it might be seen in shock or hypoperfusion states.

Therefore, the nurse should expect to find a decreased level of consciousness in a client experiencing acute respiratory acidosis.

(A) “I promise I won’t tell anyone about this.”: This statement is inappropriate because it is the nurse’s legal and ethical duty to report any suspicion or evidence of child abuse to the appropriate authorities. Keeping the information confidential could potentially endanger the child.

(B) “Let’s discuss what you have told me with your family members.”: This statement could potentially put the child at further risk, especially if the abuser is a family member. The child’s safety is the primary concern, and discussing the abuse with family members without the involvement of child protective services could be harmful.

(c) “Your family is bad for doing this to you.”: This statement is judgmental and unprofessional. It’s important to maintain a neutral stance and focus on the child’s feelings and safety rather than placing blame.

(D) “It is not your fault that this happened.”: This is the most appropriate response. It’s crucial to reassure the child that they are not to blame for the abuse. This can help alleviate feelings of guilt or shame that the child may be experiencing. The nurse should also take steps to ensure the child’s immediate safety and report the abuse to the appropriate authorities.