A nurse is reviewing the arterial blood gas values for a client. The nurse should recognize that the values indicate which of the following acid-base imbalances?

The values are:

• pH: 7.56
• PaCO2: 55 mmHg
• HCO3: 33 mEq/L

Normal ranges:

• pH: 7.35-7.45
• PaCO2: 35-45 mmHg
• HCO3: 22-28 mEq/L

Choice A reason: To provide a means for medication administration

A Jackson-Pratt (JP) drain is not used for medication administration. Its primary function is to remove fluids that accumulate in a surgical site, which helps to prevent infection and promote healing. Medication administration is typically done through other means such as intravenous (IV) lines or oral medications.

Choice B reason: To eliminate the need for wound dressings

The JP drain does not eliminate the need for wound dressings. Dressings are still required to protect the wound site, absorb any additional drainage, and prevent infection. The JP drain works in conjunction with dressings to manage wound care effectively.

Choice C reason: To limit the amount of bleeding from the surgical site

While the JP drain can help manage bleeding by removing accumulated blood, its primary purpose is not to limit bleeding. Instead, it is designed to prevent the buildup of fluids, including blood, which can lead to complications such as hematomas or infections.

Choice D reason: To prevent fluid from accumulating in the wound

The primary purpose of a Jackson-Pratt (JP) drain is to prevent fluid from accumulating in the wound. This includes blood, lymphatic fluid, and other bodily fluids that can collect at the surgical site. By removing these fluids, the JP drain helps to reduce the risk of infection, promote healing, and decrease the likelihood of complications.

Choice A Reason:

Place suction equipment at the bedside is incorrect. While having suction equipment available is important for emergency situations, it does not directly prevent postoperative pulmonary complications. Suction equipment is used to clear the airway if the client has difficulty breathing or if there is an obstruction.

Choice B Reason:

Administer a prophylactic expectorant is incorrect. Prophylactic expectorants can help in managing secretions, but they are not the primary intervention for preventing postoperative pulmonary complications. The main goal is to promote lung expansion and prevent atelectasis.

Choice C Reason:

Encourage the use of an incentive spirometer is correct. Using an incentive spirometer encourages deep breathing and lung expansion, which helps prevent atelectasis and other postoperative pulmonary complications. It is a key intervention in postoperative care to maintain optimal lung function.

Choice D Reason:

Perform range of motion exercises is incorrect. While range of motion exercises are important for preventing musculoskeletal complications and promoting circulation, they do not directly prevent pulmonary complications. The focus for pulmonary health is on lung expansion and clearing secretions.