A nurse is caring for a client who has the following arterial blood gas results: HCO3-, 18 mEq, PaCO, 28 mm Hg and pH 7.30. The nurse recognizes the client is experiencing which of the following acid base imbalances?
Respiratory acidosis
Metabolic alkalosis
Respiratory alkalosis
Metabolic acidosis
The Correct Answer is D
A. Respiratory acidosis would typically involve an elevated PaCO2, which is not seen in this case.
B. Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an elevated bicarbonate level, which is not present in this scenario.
C. Respiratory alkalosis would present with a low PaCO2 and an elevated pH, which is not the case here.
D. The low bicarbonate level (HCO3) 18mEq/L (normal range of 22-26 mEq/L), and low pH 7.30 (normal range of 7.35-7.45), indicate metabolic acidosis. suggesting acidemia. The PaCO2 is also low at 28 mm Hg, indicating a respiratory compensation for the metabolic acidosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. A urine output of 50 mL in 4 hours is inadequate and may indicate decreased renal perfusion. Magnesium sulfate can further compromise renal perfusion, so this finding warrants careful evaluation and potential adjustment of the infusion rate.
B. This indicates that the client is not experiencing respiratory depression, a potential side effect of magnesium sulfate toxicity.
C. Diminished deep tendon reflexes is an expected finding in magnesium sulfate toxicity.
D. A heart rate of 56/min is below the normal range for an adult but may be a common finding in clients receiving magnesium sulfate due to its cardiac depressant effects.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Vasopressin does not typically affect blood pressure significantly.
B. Vasopressin is not used to lower blood sugar levels; it is primarily used for water retention.
C. Vasopressin, also known as antidiuretic hormone (ADH), acts on the kidneys to decrease urine output, making this the expected outcome of therapy.
D. Specific gravity of urine may increase with vasopressin therapy due to decreased urine output, rather than decrease.
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