A nurse is collecting data from a client who reports persistent vomiting, dizziness, palpitations, and numbness and tingling in his fingers and toes, and around his mouth.
The nurse notes the client's respirations are slow and shallow.
The nurse should suspect that the client has developed which of the following acid-base imbalances?
Metabolic acidosis.
Metabolic alkalosis.
Respiratory alkalosis.
Respiratory acidosis.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Metabolic acidosis would likely present with rapid, deep breathing (Kussmaul respirations), not slow and shallow breathing.
Choice B rationale:
The client’s symptoms of vomiting (which can cause a loss of stomach acid), dizziness, palpitations, and numbness and tingling in the extremities and around the mouth are consistent with metabolic alkalosis.
Choice C rationale:
Respiratory alkalosis would likely present with rapid breathing, not slow and shallow breathing.
Choice D rationale:
Respiratory acidosis would likely present with rapid, shallow breathing, not slow and shallow breathing.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The prescription should be clear and appropriate. If there is any part of the prescription that is unclear or inappropriate, it should be clarified with the provider. This is to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the medication for the client.
Choice B rationale:
Repeating the prescription back to the provider is a good practice to confirm the accuracy of the prescription. However, it is not the only step in ensuring the appropriateness of the prescription.
Choice C rationale:
Transcribing the prescription into the client’s medical record is important for documentation and continuity of care. However, it does not directly address the appropriateness of the prescription.
Choice D rationale:
Obtaining the provider’s signature within 48 hours is a regulatory requirement in some settings. However, it does not directly address the appropriateness of the prescription.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Hyperventilation is a compensatory mechanism for metabolic acidosis, not a cause. It helps to eliminate carbon dioxide, a weak acid, to balance the pH.
Choice B rationale:
Diarrhea causes loss of bicarbonate, a base, from the body. This can lead to metabolic acidosis as there is an excess of acids.
Choice C rationale:
Salicylate intoxication can cause both respiratory alkalosis and metabolic acidosis. However, it is not the most common cause of metabolic acidosis.
Choice D rationale:
Vomiting leads to loss of gastric acid, a strong acid. This usually results in metabolic alkalosis, not acidosis.
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