A nurse is collecting data from a client whose arterial blood gas values reveal a pH of 7.24, PaCO2 of 53, and an HCO3 of 24. The nurse should prepare to treat the client for which of the following acid-base imbalances?

a. Complete heart block: Complete heart block would typically present with a regular ventricular rate, but with no association between P waves and QRS complexes.

b. Atrial fibrillation: Atrial fibrillation is characterized by the absence of identifiable P waves and an irregular ventricular rate. The atria fibrillate, leading to chaotic electrical activity and an irregular ventricular response.

c. Sinus tachycardia: Sinus tachycardia is characterized by a regular ventricular rate and identifiable P waves. It is not associated with the absence of P waves.

d. First-degree AV block: First-degree AV block is characterized by a prolonged PR interval, but it does not result in the absence of P waves. The relationship between P waves and QRS

complexes is maintained.

a. "This test will inform your provider if you are anemic." Serum creatinine is not used to assess anemia. Anemia is often evaluated through tests like hemoglobin and hematocrit.

b. "This test will inform your provider if you have an infection." Serum creatinine is not a direct indicator of infection. It is primarily used to assess kidney function.

c. "This test will inform your provider if you have a thyroid disorder." Serum creatinine is not

used to evaluate thyroid function. Thyroid function is typically assessed through thyroid function tests.

d. "This test will inform your provider how your kidneys are functioning." This is the correct

response. Serum creatinine is a waste product that is filtered by the kidneys, and elevated levels may indicate impaired renal function.