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:

“Do not take the medication before bedtime” is incorrect because the timing of medication administration depends on the specific medication and its intended effects. Some medications are specifically prescribed to be taken at bedtime to help with sleep or to reduce side effects that might occur during the day.

Choice B Reason:

“Take the medication with a full glass of water” is correct because many medications require adequate hydration to ensure proper absorption and to prevent irritation of the esophagus and stomach. Taking medication with a full glass of water helps to ensure that the medication reaches the stomach quickly and reduces the risk of esophageal irritation or damage.

Choice C Reason:

“This medication must be taken on an empty stomach” is incorrect unless the specific medication requires it. Some medications are better absorbed on an empty stomach, but this is not a universal rule and depends on the medication’s formulation and intended use.

Choice D Reason:

“Expect abdominal pain with this medication” is incorrect because not all medications cause abdominal pain. If a medication is known to cause abdominal pain, the nurse should provide additional instructions on how to manage this side effect or discuss alternative medications with the healthcare provider.

Choice A Reason:

Date of birth is an acceptable client identifier. The Joint Commission specifies that using the date of birth helps ensure accurate identification of the client. This identifier is unique to each individual and is less likely to be duplicated.

Choice B Reason:

Photograph identification is not typically listed as an acceptable identifier by the Joint Commission. While it can be useful in some settings, it is not one of the primary identifiers recommended for ensuring patient safety.

Choice C Reason:

Facility room number is not an acceptable client identifier. The Joint Commission explicitly states that room numbers should not be used as identifiers because they can change and are not unique to the individual.

Choice D Reason:

Client’s full name is an acceptable client identifier. Using the full name helps to accurately identify the client and match them with their medical records and treatment plans.