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:
"I can plan to eat rice instead of baked potatoes.”. This choice demonstrates an understanding of dietary sources of potassium. Baked potatoes are a good source of potassium, and the client's willingness to substitute rice for baked potatoes indicates that they are aware of alternative potassium-rich foods. Potassium is essential for various bodily functions, including maintaining proper heart and muscle function. The client's willingness to make a dietary adjustment is a positive sign.
Choice B rationale:
"Adding pecans will be a change I can readily make.”. While pecans are a good source of potassium, this choice does not directly address the client's ability to substitute a potassium-rich food for one they might need to avoid. It focuses on a new addition to their diet rather than a substitution, making it a less relevant response to the teaching.
Choice C rationale:
"I will eat cantaloupe for my morning snack.”. Cantaloupe is indeed a good source of potassium, but this choice does not indicate an understanding of how to substitute potassium-rich foods in their diet. It only mentions adding cantaloupe as a snack without addressing the potential need for replacing other foods high in potassium. Therefore, it does not fully demonstrate comprehension of the teaching.
Choice D rationale:
"I will miss eating yogurt every day for breakfast.”. This choice expresses a sentiment but does not show an understanding of the teaching regarding dietary sources of potassium. It merely states that the client will miss yogurt without providing any insight into their ability to make appropriate dietary choices to maintain adequate potassium intake.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice D rationale:
The nurse should seek clarification for the prescribed medication Propranolol when caring for a client with an exacerbation of asthma. Propranolol is a non-selective beta-blocker, and its use can exacerbate bronchoconstriction and potentially worsen asthma symptoms. In patients with asthma, non-selective beta-blockers are generally contraindicated. The nurse should consult with the provider to ensure that Propranolol is the appropriate choice, as there may be safer alternatives to manage the client's condition without worsening their asthma.
Choice A rationale:
Prednisone is a corticosteroid commonly used to reduce inflammation and manage asthma exacerbations. It is an appropriate medication for asthma management and does not require clarification.
Choice B rationale:
Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that is also used in the management of asthma. It helps to reduce airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction. Montelukast is an appropriate choice for asthma and does not need further clarification.
Choice C rationale:
Aminophylline is a bronchodilator that can be used in the treatment of asthma. While it may have potential side effects and interactions, it is not the first medication that needs clarification in this scenario. Propranolol, due to its potential to worsen asthma symptoms, takes precedence.
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