A nurse is reviewing a client's laboratory results. The client's ABGS are as follows: pH 7.6, HCO3 24 mEq/L, PaCO2 30 mm Hg, PaO2 90 mm Hg. Which of the following acid-base imbalances should the nurse identify the client is experiencing?
Metabolic alkalosis
Respiratory acidosis
Respiratory alkalosis
Metabolic acidosis
The Correct Answer is C
A) Metabolic alkalosis: Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and elevated bicarbonate (HCO3). In this scenario, the pH is elevated at 7.6, which supports alkalosis, but the HCO3 level is normal at 24 mEq/L. The PaCO2 is slightly low, which is not typical for metabolic alkalosis, as it would usually show an elevated HCO3 with a compensatory respiratory alkalosis.
B) Respiratory acidosis: Respiratory acidosis would present with a low pH and an elevated PaCO2. In this case, the pH is high at 7.6, indicating alkalosis, and the PaCO2 is also low at 30 mm Hg, which is inconsistent with respiratory acidosis.
C) Respiratory alkalosis: Respiratory alkalosis is indicated by a high pH with a low PaCO2. Here, the pH is elevated at 7.6, and the PaCO2 is decreased at 30 mm Hg, which fits the profile of respiratory alkalosis. The normal HCO3 level suggests that the bicarbonate is not compensating, supporting a primary respiratory alkalosis.
D) Metabolic acidosis: Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH and a low HCO3. In this scenario, the pH is elevated at 7.6, and the HCO3 level is normal at 24 mEq/L, which does not align with metabolic acidosis. The PaCO2 is also low, which is not typical for metabolic acidosis, as it would usually have a normal or high PaCO2.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Orthostatic hypotension:
Tamsulosin, an alpha-blocker used to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy, can cause orthostatic hypotension, which is a significant adverse effect. This condition involves a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up, leading to dizziness or fainting. It's important for clients to report these symptoms to their healthcare provider for potential adjustment of medication or additional instructions on managing this side effect.
B) Muscle tenderness:
Muscle tenderness is not commonly associated with tamsulosin. While muscle pain can occur with other medications, it is not a known adverse effect of tamsulosin and does not require immediate notification to the provider in the context of this medication.
C) Decreased heart rate:
Tamsulosin does not typically cause bradycardia (decreased heart rate). This side effect is more associated with beta-blockers or other cardiac medications, rather than alpha-blockers like tamsulosin. Reporting this would be relevant for those other medications but not for tamsulosin.
D) Oliguria:
Oliguria, or decreased urine output, is not a known adverse effect of tamsulosin. Tamsulosin helps improve urine flow in clients with benign prostatic hypertrophy, so reporting oliguria would not be pertinent in this context. Instead, it could indicate another underlying issue.
Correct Answer is ["B","E"]
Explanation
A) Tachypnea:
Tachypnea, or rapid breathing, is not a typical symptom of acute pyelonephritis. This condition primarily affects the kidneys and urinary tract, and while it can cause systemic symptoms, tachypnea is more commonly associated with respiratory issues.
B) Nausea:
Nausea is a common symptom of acute pyelonephritis. The infection and inflammation of the kidneys can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea and vomiting.
C) Hypothermia:
Hypothermia, or abnormally low body temperature, is not commonly associated with acute pyelonephritis. Patients with this condition are more likely to present with fever rather than hypothermia.
D) Bradycardia:
Bradycardia, or slow heart rate, is not typically seen in acute pyelonephritis. In fact, systemic infections and the associated fever can often lead to an increased heart rate (tachycardia).
E) Flank pain:
Flank pain is a hallmark symptom of acute pyelonephritis. The pain is usually located in the back and sides, near the affected kidney, and can be quite severe. This pain results from the inflammation and infection of the kidney.
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