A nurse is caring for a client whose arterial blood gas results show a pH of 7.3 and a Paco2 of 50 mm Hg. The nurse should identify that the client is experiencing which of the following acid-base imbalances?

Respiratory acidosis.

Metabolic acidosis.

Metabolic alkalosis.

Respiratory alkalosis.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale:

The arterial blood gas results show a low pH (acidosis) and an elevated Paco2 (partial pressure of carbon dioxide), which indicates respiratory acidosis. This condition occurs when there is inadequate removal of carbon dioxide through ventilation, leading to an accumulation of carbonic acid in the blood and a decrease in pH.

Choice B rationale:

Metabolic acidosis would present with a low pH and a low bicarbonate (HCO3-) level, not an elevated Paco2.

Choice C rationale:

Metabolic alkalosis would present with a high pH and an elevated bicarbonate (HCO3-) level, not an elevated Paco2.

Choice D rationale:

Respiratory alkalosis would present with a high pH and a decreased Paco2, not an elevated Paco2 as seen in this case.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Cerebral bleeding. Choice A rationale:

Stress fractures are not directly related to hypernatremia. Hypernatremia is an electrolyte imbalance, and its main effects are related to cellular dehydration and neurological symptoms rather than bone fractures.

Choice B rationale:

This is the correct answer because hypernatremia can lead to severe dehydration and cause neurological complications, including cerebral bleeding. The brain cells can shrink due to water loss, causing blood vessels to rupture, leading to bleeding in the brain.

Choice C rationale:

Atrial dysrhythmias are not directly associated with hypernatremia. Hypernatremia primarily affects the central nervous system and can lead to neurological symptoms rather than cardiac dysrhythmias.

Choice D rationale:

Pulmonary edema is not a likely consequence of hypernatremia. Pulmonary edema is associated with fluid volume excess, not fluid volume deficit, which is characteristic of hypernatremia.

A. Hypocalcemia. B. Hypernatremia. C. Hyperkalemia. D. Potential Condition. Action to Take 1: Prepare to check a serum albumin level. Action to Take 2: Request a STAT ECG. Parameters to Monitor 1: Serum bicarbonate level. Parameters to Monitor 2: Intake and Output.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Hypocalcemia. Action to Take 1: Prepare to check a serum albumin level.

Rationale:

Hypocalcemia can be influenced by changes in serum albumin levels, as calcium may bind to albumin. Correcting calcium levels based on albumin can help determine the actual calcium status. Action to Take 2: Request a STAT ECG. Rationale: Hypocalcemia can lead to prolonged QT intervals on an electrocardiogram (ECG). A STAT ECG is necessary to assess cardiac function and detect any potential arrhythmias. Parameters to Monitor 1: Serum bicarbonate level. Rationale: Monitoring serum bicarbonate levels can help assess the client's acid-base balance and metabolic status. Abnormal bicarbonate levels may indicate metabolic disturbances. Parameters to Monitor 2: Intake and Output. Rationale: Monitoring intake and output is essential to evaluate the client's fluid balance and kidney function. Hypocalcemia can impact renal function, and assessing urine output is crucial.

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A nurse is caring for a client whose arterial blood gas results show a pH of 7.3 and a Paco2 of 50 mm Hg. The nurse should identify that the client is experiencing which of the following acid-base imbalances?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A patient is admitted with hypernatremia caused by being stranded on a boat in the Atlantic Ocean for five days without a fresh water source. What is this patient at risk for developing?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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