A nurse is reviewing the arterial blood gas results for a client in the ICU who has kidney failure and determines the client has respiratory acidosis. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Hyperactive deep tendon reflexes.
Warm, flushed skin.
Widened QRS Complexes.
Bounding peripheral pulses.
The Correct Answer is C
Widened QRS Complexes.
Choice A rationale:
Hyperactive deep tendon reflexes are not typical findings in respiratory acidosis. They are more commonly associated with conditions like hypocalcemia or hypercalcemia.
Choice B rationale:
Warm, flushed skin is not directly related to respiratory acidosis. It is not a typical manifestation of this acid-base imbalance.
Choice C rationale:

Widened QRS complexes on an ECG are characteristic findings in respiratory acidosis. Acidosis can lead to changes in the electrical conduction of the heart, resulting in QRS complex widening.
Choice D rationale:
Bounding peripheral pulses are not directly associated with respiratory acidosis. They may be seen in conditions like hyperthyroidism or anemia but are not specific to respiratory acidosis. Remember, always interpret lab results and clinical findings in the context of the patient's overall condition, medical history, and other relevant factors to provide the best care possible.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Hypophosphatemia is a condition characterized by low levels of phosphate in the blood, which can be caused by various factors, including malnutrition. In this case, the patient has a history of stomach ulcers, which might have contributed to poor nutrient absorption. The nurse should request a dietitian consult to ensure the patient receives an appropriate diet rich in phosphorus, which is essential for cellular function, bone health, and energy metabolism.
Choice B rationale:
Providing aluminum hydroxide antacids as prescribed is not the appropriate intervention for hypophosphatemia. Aluminum hydroxide antacids can bind to phosphate in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing its absorption and potentially worsening the patient's already low phosphate levels.
Choice C rationale:
Instructing the patient to avoid poultry, peanuts, and seeds is not suitable for this situation. These foods are good sources of phosphorus, and avoiding them would further deplete the patient's already low phosphate levels.
Choice D rationale:
Instructing the patient to avoid the intake of sodium phosphate is not necessary for hypophosphatemia. While sodium phosphate preparations are used as laxatives, there is no indication that the patient is taking them, and they are not relevant to the management of hypophosphatemia.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Respiratory acidosis.
Choice A rationale:
Metabolic alkalosis occurs when there is an increase in pH and bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻) levels, which is not the case here. The pH value in this scenario is 7.22, indicating acidosis.
Choice B rationale:
Respiratory acidosis results from the retention of carbon dioxide (PaCO₂) in the blood, leading to a decrease in pH. In this case, the pH is low (7.22), and the PacO₂ is elevated (68 mm Hg), supporting the diagnosis of respiratory acidosis.
Choice C rationale:
Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decrease in pH and bicarbonate levels, along with a possible negative base excess. However, in this scenario, the base excess is -2, which does not indicate metabolic acidosis.
Choice D rationale:
Respiratory alkalosis occurs when there is a decrease in PaCO₂, leading to an increase in blood pH. The ABG values provided (pH 7.22, PacO₂ 68 mm Hg) are not consistent with respiratory alkalosis.
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