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

Choice A reason: Tachycardia is not an adverse effect of oxygen therapy. Tachycardia is a condition where the heart rate is faster than normal, usually above 100 beats per minute. Tachycardia can be caused by various factors, such as fever, infection, pain, or anxiety. Tachycardia can also be a sign of hypoxemia, which is a low level of oxygen in the blood, and may indicate the need for oxygen therapy.

Choice B reason: Cracks in oral mucous membranes are an adverse effect of oxygen therapy. Cracks in oral mucous membranes are a sign of dryness and irritation caused by the oxygen flow. Oxygen therapy can reduce the natural moisture and lubrication of the mouth and nose, leading to discomfort and increased risk of infection. To prevent or treat this problem, the nurse should provide the client with humidified oxygen, oral care, and hydration.

Choice C reason: Excessive pulmonary secretions are not an adverse effect of oxygen therapy. Excessive pulmonary secretions are a sign of inflammation and infection in the lungs, which can impair gas exchange and cause coughing, wheezing, and dyspnea. Excessive pulmonary secretions can be a symptom of pneumonia, which is a common cause of respiratory failure and may require oxygen therapy.

Choice D reason: Poor skin turgor is not an adverse effect of oxygen therapy. Poor skin turgor is a sign of dehydration, which is a loss of fluid from the body. Dehydration can be caused by various factors, such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever, or inadequate intake. Dehydration can affect the blood volume and pressure, and may worsen the oxygen delivery to the tissues. To prevent or treat this problem, the nurse should monitor the client's fluid balance and provide adequate hydration.

Choice A reason: Planning to administer insulin to the client is not a relevant action for the nurse to take, as it has no effect on respiratory alkalosis or hyperventilation. Insulin is used to lower blood glucose levels in patients with diabetes or hyperglycemia.

Choice B reason: Having the client breathe into a paper bag is a correct action for the nurse to take, as it helps to increase the carbon dioxide level in the blood and correct the alkalosis. Breathing into a paper bag creates a closed system that recycles the exhaled carbon dioxide and reduces the loss of carbon dioxide from the lungs.

Choice C reason: Planning to administer sodium bicarbonate to the client is not a correct action for the nurse to take, as it can worsen the alkalosis. Sodium bicarbonate is an alkali that can raise the pH of the blood and cause metabolic alkalosis. It is used to treat metabolic acidosis, not respiratory alkalosis.

Choice D reason: Having the client place their head between their knees is not a recommended action for the nurse to take, as it can impair the blood flow to the brain and cause fainting. It can also increase the respiratory rate and decrease the carbon dioxide level in the blood.