A nurse is caring for a client who has COPD. The nurse should identify that the client is at risk for which of the following acid-base imbalances?

Choice A reason: Metabolic alkalosis is a condition in which the blood pH is elevated due to an excess of bicarbonate or a loss of acid. It can be caused by vomiting, diuretics, or excessive antacid intake. It is not associated with COPD.

Choice B reason: Respiratory acidosis is a condition in which the blood pH is lowered due to an accumulation of carbon dioxide. It can be caused by hypoventilation, airway obstruction, or lung diseases such as COPD. It is the most common acid-base imbalance in COPD patients.

Choice C reason: Respiratory alkalosis is a condition in which the blood pH is elevated due to a loss of carbon dioxide. It can be caused by hyperventilation, anxiety, fever, or aspirin overdose. It is not common in COPD patients.

Choice D reason: Metabolic acidosis is a condition in which the blood pH is lowered due to an excess of acid or a loss of bicarbonate. It can be caused by diabetic ketoacidosis, renal failure, or lactic acidosis. It is not directly related to COPD.

Choice A reason: Reflex incontinence is not a sign of the need to catheterize the client, as it is a type of involuntary urine loss that occurs when the bladder is overfilled and the sphincter relaxes. Reflex incontinence can be managed by following a regular catheterization schedule, not by waiting for symptoms.

Choice B reason: Urge incontinence is not a sign of the need to catheterize the client, as it is a type of involuntary urine loss that occurs when the bladder contracts involuntarily and the sphincter cannot prevent leakage. Urge incontinence can be managed by using anticholinergic medications, bladder training, or pelvic floor exercises, not by catheterization.

Choice C reason: Nocturnal enuresis is not a sign of the need to catheterize the client, as it is a type of involuntary urine loss that occurs during sleep. Nocturnal enuresis can be managed by limiting fluid intake before bedtime, using an alarm device, or taking desmopressin, not by catheterization.

Choice D reason: Suprapubic discomfort is a sign of the need to catheterize the client, as it indicates bladder distension and possible urinary retention. Suprapubic discomfort can be relieved by draining the urine from the bladder using a catheter.