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. Having the client place their head between their knees is a measure used to alleviate symptoms associated with hyperventilation but does not directly address the underlying respiratory alkalosis.
B. Having the client breathe into a paper bag helps retain carbon dioxide, which can help reverse respiratory alkalosis by increasing PaCO2 levels and subsequently decreasing pH.
C. Administering sodium bicarbonate would worsen alkalosis by further increasing the pH and bicarbonate levels.
D. Administering insulin is not indicated for respiratory alkalosis and hyperventilation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) SIADH leads to water retention due to excessive secretion of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), resulting in weight gain rather than weight loss.
B) SIADH causes the kidneys to retain water, leading to decreased urine output (oliguria) and concentrated urine.
C) SIADH typically results in dilutional hyponatremia due to water retention, not hypernatremia.
D) In SIADH, the body retains water excessively, leading to decreased serum osmolality and suppression of thirst, rather than increased thirst.
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