A nurse is reviewing a client's arterial blood gas (ABG) results. Which of the following ABG results should the nurse anticipate when caring for a client with acidosis?
pH 7.42, PaCO2 48 mm HG, HCO3 25 mEq/L
pH 7.28, PaCO2 63 mm HG, HCO3 22 mEq/L
pH 7.49, PaCO2 30 mm Hg, HCO3 35 mEq/L
pH 7.36; PaCO2 42 mm Hg, HCO3 26 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is B
A. This result shows a slightly elevated PaCO2, which could suggest respiratory compensation for a metabolic alkalosis, not acidosis, as the pH is within the normal range.
B. This result indicates both a low pH and an elevated PaCO2, which are consistent with respiratory acidosis. The low HCO3 also suggests a metabolic acidosis component, making it the best match for a client with acidosis.
C. The elevated pH indicates alkalosis. The low PaCO2 and high HCO3 further suggest a primary respiratory alkalosis with metabolic compensation.
D. These values are within normal limits, indicating neither acidosis nor alkalosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. The duration of contact with the agent: While duration is important, it alone does not provide a comprehensive understanding of radiation burns, which require considering the type and dose of radiation as well.
B. The type, dose, and length of exposure: These factors are crucial in assessing the severity and necessary treatment for radiation burns. The type of radiation (e.g., alpha, beta, gamma), the dose
received, and the length of exposure all determine the extent of tissue damage and appropriate interventions.
C. The pathway of flow through the body: This is more relevant to internal contamination with radioactive substances rather than external radiation burns.
D. The temperature to which the skin is heated: Temperature is a factor in thermal burns, not radiation burns. Radiation burns result from energy transfer, not heat.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The client has circumoral cyanosis: Circumoral cyanosis, or bluish discoloration around the mouth, is a sign of hypoxia but may not be present in all cases of hypoxemia. Pulse oximetry provides a more objective measurement.
B. The client's heart rate is 86 bpm: Heart rate may be within normal limits even in the presence of hypoxemia, as compensatory mechanisms may not be fully activated.
C. The client has a pulse ox of 90% on room air: A pulse oximetry reading of 90% indicates hypoxemia (oxygen saturation below normal levels), which is a significant finding, especially in a client with COPD who may already have compromised respiratory function.
D. The client is lethargic: Lethargy may occur with severe hypoxemia, but it is a late sign and may not always be present. Monitoring oxygen saturation is more reliable for early detection of hypoxemia.
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