A nurse is reviewing the ABG values of a client. The client has a pH of 7.2, PaCO2 of 60 mm Hg, and HCO3 of 25 mEq/L. The nurse should identify that the client has which of the following acid-base imbalances?
Respiratory alkalosis
Metabolic alkalosis
Respiratory acidosis
Metabolic acidosis
The Correct Answer is C
Respiratory acidosis.
Rationale:
- A. Incorrect. The client does not have respiratory alkalosis because respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a low PaCO2 (less than 35 mm Hg) and a high pH (greater than 7.45).
- B. Incorrect. The client does not have metabolic alkalosis because metabolic alkalosis is characterized by a high HCO3 (greater than 26 mEq/L) and a high pH (greater than 7.45). - C. Correct. The client has respiratory acidosis because respiratory acidosis is characterized by a high PaCO2 (greater than 45 mm Hg) and a low pH (less than 7.35).
- D. Incorrect. The client does not have metabolic acidosis because metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low HCO3 (less than 22 mEq/L) and a low pH (less than 7.35).
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
- A. "We can expect the hospice nurse to provide support for us after our mother's death." This statement indicates that the family understands that hospice care includes bereavement services for up to one year after the death of a loved one.
- B. "A hospice nurse will come to the house each time our mother needs pain medication." This statement indicates that the family does not understand that hospice care involves teaching them how to administer pain medication and other comfort measures to their mother at home.
- C. "Now that my mother is receiving hospice services, we will not be able to get respite care." This statement indicates that the family does not understand that hospice care offers respite care, which allows them to take a break from caregiving for a short period of time.
- D. "Hospice care focuses on arranging treatment that will prolong our mother's life." This statement indicates that the family does not understand that hospice care focuses on providing palliative care, which aims to relieve pain and suffering, rather than curative treatment, which aims to extend life.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. A client who has cellulitis and is receiving oral antibiotics every 8 hr has a mild to moderate infection that can be managed at home with proper wound care and medication adherence. The client does not require hospitalization unless there are signs of systemic infection or complications.
B. A client who is postoperative following an upper endoscopy procedure and is alert but does not have a gag reflex has a high risk of aspiration and airway obstruction due to impaired swallowing function. The client requires close monitoring and intervention until the gag reflex returns, which can take several hours or longer depending on the type and amount of anesthesia used.
C. A mother and their newborn 12 hr postdelivery have not completed the minimum recommended stay of 24 to 48 hours for uncomplicated vaginal deliveries or 72 to 96 hours for cesarean deliveries, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. The mother and their newborn require assessment, education, support, and follow-up care to ensure their health and well-being.
D. A client who has lower extremity weakness and is newly admitted for observation has an undiagnosed condition that could indicate a serious neurological or vascular problem, such as stroke, spinal cord injury, or peripheral artery disease. The client requires diagnostic testing, evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation to prevent further deterioration or complications.
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