A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing anxiety as well as numbness and tingling of the lips and fingers. The client's ABGs are pH 7.48, PCO2 30 mm Hg, HCO3 24 mEq/L, PaO2 85 mm Hg. Which of the following acid-base imbalances should the nurse identify that the client is experiencing?
Respiratory alkalosis.
Respiratory acidosis.
Metabolic alkalosis.
Metabolic acidosis.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
The client's ABG values show a pH of 7.48, PCO2 of 30 mm Hg, HCO3 of 24 mEq/L, and PaO2 of 85 mm Hg. The elevated pH and decreased PCO2 (respiratory component) suggest respiratory alkalosis. Respiratory alkalosis occurs when there is excessive ventilation, leading to a decrease in carbon dioxide levels (hypocapnia) and subsequent alkalosis.
Choice B rationale:
Respiratory acidosis is characterized by an elevated PCO2 and decreased pH. In this case, the client's PCO2 is decreased, indicating respiratory alkalosis rather than respiratory acidosis.
Choice C rationale:
Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an elevated HCO3 (bicarbonate) level and an increased pH. The client's HCO3 level is within the normal range, making metabolic alkalosis an incorrect identification.
Choice D rationale:
Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decreased HCO3 level and a decreased pH. The client's HCO3 level is within the normal range, ruling out metabolic acidosis as the acid-base imbalance in this case.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Preparing an endotracheal tube for intubation is not the first action the nurse should take in this situation. Intubation is an invasive procedure and should be reserved for cases where other, less invasive methods of airway management have failed.
Choice B rationale:
Inserting a plastic oral airway may help maintain the airway in some situations, but it is not the first action to take when the client's airway is obstructing and their oxygen saturation is low.
Choice C rationale:
Providing oxygen using a manual resuscitation bag (bag-valve-mask device) is the correct first action. This allows the nurse to manually assist the client's breathing and deliver oxygen more effectively than just providing supplemental oxygen through a nasal cannula or face mask.
Choice D rationale:
Performing a head tilt with a chin-lift is a basic airway maneuver, but it may not be sufficient in this situation, especially if the airway is completely obstructed. Providing oxygen with a manual resuscitation bag takes precedence.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Allergy to eggs is not a contraindication for taking chondroitin with glucosamine. These supplements do not contain eggs and are generally safe for individuals with egg allergies.
Choice B rationale:
Hypotension is not directly related to the use of chondroitin with glucosamine. These supplements are not known to cause significant changes in blood pressure.
Choice C rationale:
History of hypoglycemia is not a specific concern with chondroitin and glucosamine supplements. These supplements do not significantly impact blood sugar levels in people without diabetes.
Choice D rationale:
The correct choice. The nurse should instruct the client to use chondroitin with glucosamine with caution if they are on anticoagulant therapy. Chondroitin and glucosamine may have mild anticoagulant effects, and when combined with prescribed anticoagulant medications, there is a potential risk of increased bleeding or altered blood clotting times. It is essential to monitor the client's coagulation parameters closely if they decide to use these supplements.
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