A nurse is caring for a client who has heart failure.
The client states she has recently been bothered by a non-productive cough.
Which of the following medications should the nurse associate with the non-productive cough?

Choice A rationale:

A respiratory rate of 9/min and shallow respirations are indicative of hypoventilation, which can lead to an accumulation of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood. This condition results in respiratory acidosis (Choice D). In respiratory acidosis, the arterial pH is decreased (acidic) while the PaCO2 (partial pressure of carbon dioxide) is elevated.

Choice B rationale:

Respiratory alkalosis (Choice B) is characterized by a low PaCO2 and an elevated pH due to hyperventilation. Shallow respirations and a respiratory rate of 9/min do not align with this condition, as it typically involves rapid and deep breathing.

Choice C rationale:

Metabolic alkalosis (Choice C) results from a primary excess of bicarbonate (HCO3-) in the blood and is not associated with the given respiratory patterns. Shallow respirations and a low respiratory rate are more likely to lead to an accumulation of CO2, causing respiratory acidosis (Choice D).

Choice D rationale:

The correct answer is choice D. Shallow respirations and a respiratory rate of 9/min indicate hypoventilation, leading to an accumulation of CO2 in the blood. This condition results in respiratory acidosis, where the arterial pH is decreased. The body's compensatory response is to retain bicarbonate to normalize pH, but this can result in an elevated HCO3- level. The primary acid-base imbalance in this case is respiratory acidosis. .

Choice A rationale:

Cool, clammy skin is not a typical manifestation of hypernatremia (high sodium levels). Hypernatremia is characterized by an excess of sodium in the blood, which typically leads to symptoms such as thirst, dry mucous membranes, and decreased skin turgor. Cool, clammy skin is more often associated with conditions like shock or hypoglycemia.

Choice B rationale:

Increased salivation is not a common manifestation of hypernatremia. Instead, hypernatremia often leads to signs of dehydration, including dry mouth and decreased salivation.

Choice C rationale:

Hypertension is not a direct manifestation of hypernatremia. Hypernatremia can cause increased blood pressure, but it is not one of the typical clinical signs of hypernatremia. Hypertension is more commonly associated with conditions like high sodium intake, kidney disease, or primary hypertension.

Choice D rationale:

A decreased level of consciousness is a significant manifestation of hypernatremia. Elevated sodium levels in the blood can lead to cellular dehydration, affecting brain cells and resulting in neurological symptoms such as confusion, lethargy, and decreased consciousness. Severe hypernatremia can even lead to seizures and coma. .