A nurse is reviewing laboratory results for a client who has metabolic alkalosis. Which of the following blood gas values should the nurse expect?

A. "I will notify my doctor if the stoma starts to look purple.": A stoma that appears purple can indicate compromised blood flow or ischemia, which is a medical emergency. Recognizing this sign and notifying the healthcare provider demonstrates understanding of proper stoma care and potential complications.

B. "I will irrigate the colostomy every day.": Ascending colostomies typically produce liquid to semi-liquid stool and are not routinely irrigated. Daily irrigation is usually reserved for descending or sigmoid colostomies to regulate bowel movements.

C. "I should expect my stool to be formed.": Stool from an ascending colostomy is usually liquid or semi-liquid because the stool has not yet passed through the majority of the colon where water absorption occurs. Expecting formed stool indicates a misunderstanding of colostomy output.

D. "I will empty the pouch every 2 to 3 hours.": Ascending colostomy output is frequent and liquid, but pouches are generally emptied when they are one-third to one-half full, not on a strict schedule. Overly frequent emptying is unnecessary and may increase the risk of skin irritation.

A. “I can remove my security band to give it to a family member”: Removing the security band compromises infant safety and facility protocols. Security bands must remain on the mother and infant to prevent abduction and ensure proper identification.

B. “I will have an identification that matches the one my baby wears.”: Matching identification bands for the mother and infant are a key safety measure to prevent mix-ups and unauthorized removal of the newborn. Understanding and adhering to this protocol demonstrates comprehension of facility security.

C. “I can take my baby to the lobby to visit family”: Infants should not be taken to unsecured areas like the lobby without proper authorization. Doing so violates security protocols and increases the risk of accidental or unauthorized removal.

D. “I will carry my baby to the nursery”: Infants are typically transported to the nursery by authorized staff or in secure bassinet transport. Parents should follow facility guidelines rather than carrying the baby independently to ensure safety and compliance with protocols.