A nurse is reviewing laboratory results of a client. The client's ABG results are as follows: pH 7.2, HCO, 26 mEq/L, PaCO2 52 mm Hg. Which of the following acid-base imbalances should the nurse identify the client is experiencing?
Metabolic acidosis
Metabolic alkalosis
Respiratory alkalosis
Respiratory acidosis
The Correct Answer is D
A) Metabolic acidosis: In metabolic acidosis, you would expect a low pH (acidosis) with a low bicarbonate (HCO3-) level. However, the given bicarbonate level is within the normal range (22-26 mEq/L), which indicates the acidosis is not metabolic in origin.
B) Metabolic alkalosis: Metabolic alkalosis would present with a high pH (alkalosis) and an elevated bicarbonate (HCO3-) level. The pH in this case is low, indicating acidosis, and the bicarbonate level is normal, ruling out metabolic alkalosis.
C) Respiratory alkalosis: In respiratory alkalosis, you would see a high pH (alkalosis) and a low PaCO2 due to hyperventilation. The given pH is low, indicating acidosis, and the PaCO2 is elevated, which is inconsistent with respiratory alkalosis.
D) Respiratory acidosis: Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a low pH (acidosis) and an elevated PaCO2 due to hypoventilation or impaired gas exchange. The client's ABG results show a low pH (7.2), a normal bicarbonate level (26 mEq/L), and an elevated PaCO2 (52 mm Hg), indicating the client is experiencing respiratory acidosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Position the cast on a plastic-covered pillow:
Positioning the cast on a plastic-covered pillow is not recommended because the plastic can trap moisture and heat, potentially affecting the cast's integrity as it dries. Instead, a soft, absorbent material should be used to support the cast.
B) Perform neurovascular checks every 2 hr:
Frequent neurovascular checks are essential to monitor for complications such as compartment syndrome, nerve damage, or impaired circulation. This action helps ensure that any changes in sensation, movement, or circulation are identified and addressed promptly.
C) Instruct the client to avoid moving the fingers on the left hand:
Encouraging the client to move their fingers is important to prevent stiffness and swelling and to promote circulation. Instructing the client to avoid moving their fingers is not appropriate and could lead to complications.
D) Touch the cast with the palms of the hands when moving the client:
Handling a wet plaster cast with the palms of the hands is correct to prevent indentations and pressure points that could cause skin irritation or pressure sores. However, this action is not as critical as performing frequent neurovascular checks to ensure the client's safety and monitor for complications.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Antimicrobial medication can decrease the severity of symptoms.: Antiviral medications, rather than antimicrobial ones, are used to reduce the severity and duration of herpes zoster (shingles). They work best when started within 72 hours of the rash appearing.
B. Postherpetic nerve pain can occur in older adult clients.: Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a common complication of herpes zoster, especially in older adults. It is characterized by persistent pain in the area where the shingles rash occurred.
C. Lesions often occur inside the oral cavity of clients who have this infection.: Herpes zoster typically causes a painful rash that appears on one side of the body, often in a band or strip, rather than inside the oral cavity. Oral lesions are more characteristic of herpes simplex virus infections.
D. Cellulitis is a common manifestation in clients who have this infection.: Cellulitis is not a typical manifestation of herpes zoster. Herpes zoster is characterized by a vesicular rash and pain along a dermatomal distribution, not by cellulitis.
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