A nurse is collecting data from a client who has shallow respirations and a respiratory rate of 9/min.
Which of the following acid-base imbalances should the nurse expect?

Choice A rationale:

Administer IV morphine. Administering IV morphine may be necessary for pain management in a client with a pulmonary embolism. However, pain relief should not take precedence over ensuring the patient's oxygenation and cardiovascular stability. Oxygen therapy is the top priority to address hypoxia and prevent further deterioration. Once oxygenation is secured, pain management can be considered.

Choice B rationale:

Start an IV infusion of lactated Ringer's. Initiating an IV infusion of lactated Ringer's solution may be important for maintaining hydration and electrolyte balance in a patient with a pulmonary embolism. However, this is not the top priority when a client is at risk of or experiencing a pulmonary embolism. Ensuring oxygenation and cardiovascular stability takes precedence. Once the patient is stable, intravenous fluids can be administered if needed.

Choice D rationale:

Initiate cardiac monitoring. Initiating cardiac monitoring is important in assessing the patient's cardiac rhythm and identifying any dysrhythmias or changes that may occur due to the pulmonary embolism. While this is a vital step, it is not the highest priority when the client is in a state of hypoxia and respiratory distress. Oxygen therapy should be the first intervention to address the immediate threat to the patient's life.

Choice A rationale:

Dyspnea is a common finding in clients with emphysema. Emphysema is a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) characterized by the destruction of the alveoli in the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing and shortness of breath. The loss of alveoli reduces the surface area for gas exchange, causing dyspnea.

Choice B rationale:

Bradycardia is not typically associated with emphysema. In fact, it is more common for clients with emphysema to have an increased heart rate (tachycardia) due to the body's compensatory response to low oxygen levels in the blood.

Choice C rationale:

Clubbing of the fingers is often seen in clients with chronic respiratory conditions like emphysema. It is a result of chronic hypoxia and is characterized by the abnormal rounding and thickening of the fingertips and nail beds.

Choice D rationale:

Barrel chest is a common physical finding in clients with emphysema. It is characterized by an increase in the anteroposterior diameter of the chest due to overinflation of the lungs. This change in chest shape is a result of chronic air trapping and hyperinflation, which are hallmarks of emphysema.

Choice E rationale:

Shallow respirations are expected in clients with emphysema. Due to the loss of alveolar elasticity and increased airway resistance, clients with emphysema tend to take shallow breaths, which are less effective for oxygen exchange.