A nurse is monitoring a client who has diabetes mellitus and a glucose level of 384 mg/dl. (74 to 106 mg/dL). Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication of metabolic acidosis?
Positive Trousseau's sign
Dizziness upon standing
Tingling of the fingers
Increased respiratory rate
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason:
Positive Trousseau's sign is incorrect. Trousseau's sign is associated more with calcium imbalances, particularly hypocalcemia, and is assessed by inflating a blood pressure cuff on the arm to induce carpal spasm. It's not a specific indicator of metabolic acidosis related to high glucose levels in diabetes mellitus.
Choice B Reason:
Dizziness upon standing is incorrect. Dizziness upon standing, also known as orthostatic hypotension, is more commonly associated with blood pressure changes upon position changes. While it can occur in various conditions, it's not a specific indicator of metabolic acidosis in this context.
Choice C Reason:
Tingling of the fingers is incorrect. Tingling sensations, known as paresthesia, can occur due to various reasons, including nerve damage related to chronic high blood sugar levels in diabetes (diabetic neuropathy). However, it's not a direct and specific indicator of metabolic acidosis caused by high glucose levels in diabetes mellitus.
Choice D Reason:
Increased respiratory rate is correct. Metabolic acidosis in a diabetic individual can trigger compensatory mechanisms, such as increased respiratory rate (Kussmaul respirations), as the body tries to eliminate excess acids through respiration to help regulate the acid-base balance. This increased respiratory rate is an attempt to blow off carbon dioxide (a potential acidic byproduct) and decrease the acidity in the blood.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Age 45 years is incorrect.While age is a significant factor in osteoporosis risk, 45 years old isn't inherently considered a high-risk age for developing osteoporosis. However, bone density tends to decrease gradually with age, and after menopause in women, there's a more significant decline due to hormonal changes.
Choice B Reason:
Regular aerobic exercise is incorrect. Regular exercise, particularly weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening activities, is typically beneficial for bone health. It can help maintain or improve bone density and strength, reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Therefore, regular aerobic exercise is generally considered a protective factor against osteoporosis, rather than a risk factor.
Choice C Reason:
Uses NSAIDs for pain relief is incorrect. While long-term use of certain medications, such as glucocorticoids (steroids), can increase the risk of osteoporosis due to their impact on bone density, the use of NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) for pain relief isn't directly linked to osteoporosis as a significant risk factor. However, chronic use of certain medications might have implications for bone health and should be assessed on an individual basis.
Choice D Reason:
Smoking is a known risk factor for osteoporosis. It can have detrimental effects on bone health by interfering with the body's ability to absorb calcium, decreasing estrogen levels, and impairing bone-forming cells. Consequently, smokers have a higher risk of developing osteoporosis compared to non-smokers.

Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Older adults are at increased risk for falls due to decreased vision, balance issues, and decreased reaction time. Placing white or brightly colored tape on the edges of stairs enhances visibility, reducing the risk of missteps and falls.
Choice B Reason:
Placing area rugs on wooden floors is not appropriate. Area rugs on wooden floors can pose a tripping hazard, especially for older adults who might have mobility issues. They can easily slip or trip on loose rugs. Securing rugs with non-slip backing or removing them entirely is a better safety measure.
Choice C Reason:
Running wires and cords under carpeting is not appropriate. Running wires and cords under carpeting can create tripping hazards and increase the risk of electrical issues, including potential overheating and fire hazards. It's safer to secure cords along walls or use cord covers to prevent tripping and reduce potential electrical hazards
Choice D Reason:
Heating systems should be inspected annually to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and fire hazards. An annual inspection is recommended, especially for older adults who may have impaired smell or cognition, making them less likely to detect gas leaks or heating malfunctions.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
