A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a total hip arthroplasty. Which of the following actions by the nurse demonstrates cost-effective care?

A nurse reviewing the laboratory results of a client who has DKA should identify that the client's ABG results of pH 7.30, PaCO₂ 34 mm Hg and HCO₃ 21 mEq/L indicate metabolic acidosis. Metabolic acidosis is an acid-base imbalance characterized by a low pH (less than 7.35) and a low bicarbonate level (less than 22 mEq/L).

The other options are not correct.

a) Respiratory alkalosisis an acid-base imbalance characterized by a high pH (greater than 7.45) and a low PaCO₂ (less than 35 mm Hg).

b) Metabolic alkalosisis an acid-base imbalance characterized by a high pH (greater than 7.45) and a high bicarbonate level (greater than 26 mEq/L).

d) Respiratory acidosisis an acid-base imbalance characterized by a low pH (less than 7.35) and a high PaCO₂ (greater than 45 mm Hg).

Answer: D

Rationale:

A) Collect 2 mL of sputum in an emesis basin: Collecting sputum in an emesis basin is inappropriate for laboratory testing. The sputum should be collected directly into a sterile container to prevent contamination. This ensures that the culture and sensitivity results are accurate and reflect the client's true respiratory pathogens.

B) Instruct the client to rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash prior to specimen collection: Using an antiseptic mouthwash before collecting a sputum sample is not recommended because it may alter the flora present in the sputum, leading to inaccurate culture results. Instead, the client should rinse their mouth with plain water to clear excess saliva or food debris.

C) Swab the oropharynx with a sterile swab: Swabbing the oropharynx does not obtain sputum from the lungs but instead gathers a sample from the throat, which may not be reflective of lower respiratory infections. A proper sputum sample is produced through a deep cough to collect material directly from the lungs.

D) Refrigerate the specimen until the time of transport to the laboratory: Refrigerating the sputum specimen helps to preserve its integrity by preventing the overgrowth of bacteria or other pathogens until it can be transported to the laboratory. Proper refrigeration ensures that the culture and sensitivity results remain accurate.