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
Metabolic Alkalosis
Metabolic Acidosis
Respiratory Alkalosis
Respiratory Acidosis
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
Metabolic Alkalosis is correct. The pH of 7.56 is above the normal range (7.35-7.45), indicating alkalosis. The HCO3 level of 33 mEq/L is also above the normal range (22-28 mEq/L), which suggests a metabolic cause. In metabolic alkalosis, the body has an excess of bicarbonate or a loss of hydrogen ions.
Choice B Reason:
Metabolic Acidosis is incorrect. Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH (below 7.35) and a low HCO3 level (below 22 mEq/L). The given values indicate alkalosis, not acidosis.
Choice C Reason:
Respiratory Alkalosis is incorrect. Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a high pH (above 7.45) and a low PaCO2 (below 35 mmHg). In this case, the PaCO2 is elevated (55 mmHg), which does not align with respiratory alkalosis.
Choice D Reason:
Respiratory Acidosis is incorrect. Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a low pH (below 7.35) and a high PaCO2 (above 45 mmHg). While the PaCO2 is elevated, the pH indicates alkalosis, not acidosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Hyperkalosis is incorrect. Hyperkalosis refers to an elevated level of potassium in the blood, which is not directly related to the pH level. While hyperkalemia can occur in acidosis, it is not the primary condition indicated by a low pH
Choice B Reason:
Hyponatremia is incorrect. Hyponatremia refers to low sodium levels in the blood. It does not directly affect the pH level and is not indicated by the pH value provided.
Choice C Reason:
Acidosis is correct. The normal pH range for arterial blood is 7.35 to 7.45. A pH of 7.10 is below this range, indicating that the blood is too acidic. This condition is known as acidosis.

Choice D Reason:
Alkalosis is incorrect. Alkalosis refers to a condition where the blood pH is higher than the normal range, indicating that the blood is too basic. A pH of 7.10 is too low, not too high, and therefore indicates acidosis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Defamation of character is incorrect. Defamation of character involves making false statements about someone that damage their reputation. This can be in the form of slander (spoken) or libel (written). Applying restraints without proper justification does not fall under defamation of character.
Choice B Reason:
Invasion of privacy is incorrect. Invasion of privacy involves intruding into someone’s personal life without consent. This can include unauthorized access to personal information or spaces. Applying restraints without proper justification is not an invasion of privacy.
Choice C Reason:
Slander is incorrect. Slander is a form of defamation that involves making false spoken statements that damage someone’s reputation. Applying restraints without proper justification does not involve making false statements.
Choice D Reason:
False imprisonment is correct. False imprisonment involves restraining a person without legal justification or their consent. In a healthcare setting, applying restraints without proper justification or following legal and ethical guidelines constitutes false imprisonment and violates the client’s rights.
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