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 C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Metabolic alkalosis is incorrect because it would present with a high pH and high HCO3, which is not the case here.
Choice B rationale:
Respiratory acidosis is incorrect because it would present with a low pH and high PaCO2, which is not the case here.
Choice C rationale:
Metabolic acidosis is correct because it presents with a low pH and low HCO3, which matches the client’s ABG results.
Choice D rationale:
Respiratory alkalosis is incorrect because it would present with a high pH and low PaCO2, which is not the case here.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Decreased deep-tendon reflexes are not a common symptom of hypocalcemia. Normal calcium levels in the blood range from 8.5 to 10.2 mg/dL1.
Choice B rationale:
Skeletal muscle weakness is a symptom of hypercalcemia, not hypocalcemia.
Choice C rationale:
Hypoactive bowel sounds are associated with hypercalcemia, not hypocalcemia.
Choice D rationale:
Tingling of the lips is a common symptom of hypocalcemia. This occurs due to increased excitability of the nerves.
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