A nurse is reviewing the ABG values of a client who has pneumonia. Which of the following findings indicates the client is developing respiratory acidosis?
PaO2 85 mmHg
pH 7.47
HCO3 25 mEq/L
PaCO2 55 mmHg
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: PaO2 85 mmHg is within the normal range of 80 to 100 mmHg and does not indicate any hypoxemia or oxygen deficiency.
Choice B reason: pH 7.47 is within the normal range of 7.35 to 7.45 and does not indicate any acid-base imbalance.
Choice C reason: HCO3 25 mEq/L is within the normal range of 22 to 26 mEq/L and does not indicate any metabolic disturbance.
Choice D reason: PaCO2 55 mmHg is above the normal range of 35 to 45 mmHg and indicates respiratory acidosis, which is a condition where the lungs cannot eliminate enough carbon dioxide and the blood becomes too acidic. This can be caused by pneumonia, which can impair gas exchange and ventilation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Filling the pad with sterile water is not necessary, as tap water can be used for an aquathermia pad without increasing the risk of infection or contamination.
Choice B reason: Using safety pins to secure the pad in place is not appropriate, as they can puncture or damage the pad and cause leakage or electric shock.
Choice C reason: Applying the pad for 45 min at a time is not recommended, as it can cause skin burns or tissue damage due to prolonged exposure to heat. The nurse should apply the pad for no more than 20 min at a time and check the skin frequently for signs of redness or blistering.
Choice D reason: Covering the pad prior to use is an important action, as it can prevent direct contact between the pad and the skin and reduce the risk of burns or irritation. The nurse should use a towel or a cloth to cover the pad before applying it to the affected area.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice D: Comparing the reading to the preoperative value is the first action that the nurse should take because it can help determine if the client's blood pressure is normal for them or if it indicates hypotension, which can be a sign of hemorrhage, shock, or infection.
Choice a is not correct because covering the client with a warm blanket is not the first action that the nurse should take, but rather an intervention that can help prevent hypothermia and shivering, which can increase oxygen demand and blood loss.
Choice b is not correct because increasing the IV fluid rate is not the first action that the nurse should take, but rather an intervention that can help restore fluid volume and blood pressure, if indicated by other data and prescribed by the provider.
Choice c is not correct because reassuring the client is not the first action that the nurse should take, but rather an intervention that can help reduce anxiety and stress, which can affect blood pressure and heart rate.
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