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 D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Is not suitable for a client who has undergone a mastectomy with axillary lymph node dissection. This exercise may put a strain on the surgical site and cause discomfort or injury.
Choice B rationale:
Is also not appropriate for a postoperative mastectomy client. It involves using the left hand extensively, which could potentially disrupt the healing process and cause pain.
Choice C rationale:
Is not recommended for a postoperative mastectomy client. It involves significant upper body movement, which may not be well-tolerated after surgery, especially with lymph node dissection.
Choice D rationale:
This exercise is suitable for a postoperative mastectomy client as it helps in maintaining hand and arm mobility without putting excessive strain on the surgical site. It also aids in preventing complications like lymphedema, which is a potential concern after lymph node dissection.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Instructing the client to take deep breaths during the test is not appropriate for a thoracentesis. This procedure involves the insertion of a needle into the pleural space to drain fluid or air, and taking deep breaths could interfere with the accuracy and safety of the procedure.
Choice B rationale:
Assisting the client to a prone position prior to the test is also incorrect. During a thoracentesis, the client is usually seated upright or in a slightly forward-leaning position to allow better access to the pleural space and improve breathing.
Choice C rationale:
Informing the client that the new onset of a cough is expected following the test is not accurate. While a cough can be a possible side effect, it is not a common or expected outcome of a thoracentesis.
Choice D rationale:
Applying pressure to the client's puncture site after the test is complete is the correct action. This helps to prevent bleeding and reduce the risk of pneumothorax (collapsed lung) by promoting clot formation at the site of the needle insertion.
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