A nurse is caring for a client whose arterial blood gas results show the following results:. pH: 7.2. PaCO2: 50 mm Hg. HCO3: 24 mEq/L. The nurse should identify the client is experiencing which of the following acid-base conditions?
Respiratory acidosis.
Metabolic alkalosis.
Metabolic acidosis.
Respiratory alkalosis.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
The client's arterial blood gas (ABG) results indicate a low pH (acidemia) and high PaCO2, which is characteristic of respiratory acidosis. Respiratory acidosis occurs when there is inadequate removal of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the body, leading to an accumulation of CO2 and a decrease in pH. In this case, the high PaCO2 (50 mm Hg) indicates that the client is retaining carbon dioxide, likely due to impaired ventilation. The normal pH range is 7.35 to 7.45, and the normal PaCO2 range is 35 to 45 mm Hg. These ABG values reflect an acid-base imbalance in the respiratory system, specifically, respiratory acidosis.
Choice B rationale:
Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an elevated pH and an increase in bicarbonate (HCO3) levels. This is not the condition described in the client's ABG results, as the pH is low (acidemic) and HCO3 levels are within the normal range (24 mEq/L).
Choice C rationale:
Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH and a decreased HCO3 level. The client's ABG results do not align with metabolic acidosis since the pH is low (acidemic) and the HCO3 level is within the normal range (24 mEq/L).
Choice D rationale:
Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and low PaCO2. The client's ABG results do not match this condition as the pH is low (acidemic) and the PaCO2 is high (50 mm Hg), indicating respiratory acidosis. Therefore, choice A, respiratory acidosis, is the correct interpretation of the ABG results.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Tuberculosis treatment with rifampin typically lasts 6 to 9 months. Lifelong therapy is not required for TB, and unnecessary prolonged use increases the risk of drug resistance and hepatotoxicity.
Choice B rationale: Rifampin induces liver enzymes that accelerate the metabolism of oral contraceptives, making them less effective. It does not cause amenorrhea, but it necessitates the use of non-hormonal backup contraception.
Choice C rationale: Rifampin causes a harmless reddish-orange discoloration of urine, sweat, tears, and saliva. This can permanently stain soft contact lenses, so clients are advised to wear eyeglasses during the treatment course.
Choice D rationale: A yellow tint to the skin or sclera indicates jaundice, which is a sign of hepatotoxicity. This is a serious adverse effect rather than an expected reaction and must be reported immediately.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Chloride 99 mEq/L. Rationale: A chloride level of 99 mEq/L is within the normal range, which is typically around 96-106 mEq/L. There is no need to report this value to the provider as it is not indicative of a significant abnormality.
Choice C rationale:
Magnesium 1.9 mg/dL. Rationale: A magnesium level of 1.9 mg/dL is within the normal range, which is generally about 1.5-2.5 mg/dL. This value is not indicative of a significant abnormality and does not require immediate reporting to the provider.
Choice D rationale:
Potassium 3.6 mEq/L. Rationale: A potassium level of 3.6 mEq/L is within the normal range, which is typically around 3.5-5.0 mEq/L. While it's on the lower side of the normal range, it is not low enough to warrant immediate reporting to the provider. However, the nurse should continue to monitor the client's potassium levels and address any potential issues if they persist or worsen.
Choice B rationale:
Sodium 126 mEq/L. Rationale: A sodium level of 126 mEq/L is below the normal range, which is typically around 135-145 mEq/L. Hyponatremia, or low sodium levels, can be a serious condition that can lead to neurological symptoms and other complications. Therefore, the nurse should promptly report this finding to the provider so that appropriate interventions can be initiated.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.