A nurse is reviewing a client's laboratory report. The client's ABG levels are pH 7.5, PaCO2 32 mm Hg, and HCO3 24 mEq/L. The nurse should determine that the client has which of the following acid-base imbalances?

Respiratory alkalosis

Metabolic acidosis

Respiratory acidosis

Metabolic alkalosis

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A reason: This is the correct imbalance, because respiratory alkalosis is a condition that occurs when the blood pH is high, the PaCO2 is low, and the HCO3 is normal or low. Respiratory alkalosis is caused by hyperventilation, which can result from anxiety, fever, pain, or mechanical ventilation.

Choice B reason: This is an incorrect imbalance, because metabolic acidosis is a condition that occurs when the blood pH is low, the PaCO2 is normal or low, and the HCO3 is low. Metabolic acidosis is caused by the accumulation of acids in the blood, which can result from diabetic ketoacidosis, renal failure, or lactic acidosis.

Choice C reason: This is an incorrect imbalance, because respiratory acidosis is a condition that occurs when the blood pH is low, the PaCO2 is high, and the HCO3 is normal or high. Respiratory acidosis is caused by hypoventilation, which can result from airway obstruction, chest injury, or narcotic overdose.

Choice D reason: This is an incorrect imbalance, because metabolic alkalosis is a condition that occurs when the blood pH is high, the PaCO2 is normal or high, and the HCO3 is high. Metabolic alkalosis is caused by the loss of acids from the blood, which can result from vomiting, gastric suction, or diuretic therapy.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason: This is an important data, but not the first one. The nurse should first assess the client's airway, breathing, and circulation, which are the priorities in any emergency situation.

Choice B reason: This is the correct data, because the nurse should first collect the respiratory rate to determine if the client has any signs of airway obstruction, inhalation injury, or respiratory distress, which are life-threatening complications of facial burns.

Choice C reason: This is a relevant data, but not the first one. The nurse should collect the presence of bowel sounds later, after ensuring the client's airway, breathing, and circulation are stable, to assess the client's gastrointestinal function and possible paralytic ileus.

Choice D reason: This is a significant data, but not the first one. The nurse should collect the level of pain later, after ensuring the client's airway, breathing, and circulation are stable, to provide adequate analgesia and comfort measures.

A. Have the client gently blow clots from his nose every 5 min B. Instruct the client to sit with his head hyperextended C. Apply ice compresses to the back of the client’s neck D. Pinch the soft portion of the client’s nose for 10 min

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A reason: Having the client gently blow clots from his nose every 5 min is an incorrect action, because it can increase the bleeding and trauma to the nasal mucosa. The client should avoid blowing or picking his nose.

Choice B reason: Instructing the client to sit with his head hyperextended is an incorrect action, because it can cause the blood to drain into the throat and increase the risk of aspiration or vomiting. The client should sit with his head tilted forward.

Choice C reason: Applying ice compresses to the back of the client’s neck is an incorrect action, because it has no effect on the bleeding site. The nurse should apply ice compresses to the bridge of the nose or the cheeks to constrict the blood vessels and reduce the bleeding.

Choice D reason: Pinching the soft portion of the client’s nose for 10 min is a correct action, because it applies direct pressure to the bleeding site and allows clot formation. The nurse should instruct the client to breathe through his mouth and avoid swallowing the blood.

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A nurse is reviewing a client's laboratory report. The client's ABG levels are pH 7.5, PaCO2 32 mm Hg, and HCO3 24 mEq/L. The nurse should determine that the client has which of the following acid-base imbalances?

Nursing Test Bank

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