A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who has DKA. The client's ABG results are pH 7.30, PaCO₂ 34 mm Hg and HCO₃ 21 mEq/L. The nurse should identify that these values indicate which of the following acid-base imbalances?
Respiratory alkalosis
Metabolic alkalosis
Metabolic acidosis
Respiratory acidosis
The Correct Answer is C
A nurse reviewing the laboratory results of a client who has DKA should identify that the client's ABG results of pH 7.30, PaCO₂ 34 mm Hg and HCO₃ 21 mEq/L indicate metabolic acidosis. Metabolic acidosis is an acid-base imbalance characterized by a low pH (less than 7.35) and a low bicarbonate level (less than 22 mEq/L).
The other options are not correct.
a) Respiratory alkalosis is an acid-base imbalance characterized by a high pH (greater than 7.45) and a low PaCO₂ (less than 35 mm Hg).
b) Metabolic alkalosis is an acid-base imbalance characterized by a high pH (greater than 7.45) and a high bicarbonate level (greater than 26 mEq/L).
d) Respiratory acidosis is an acid-base imbalance characterized by a low pH (less than 7.35) and a high PaCO₂ (greater than 45 mm Hg).
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A nurse caring for a client who is receiving total parenteral nutrition should identify that a serum calcium level of 12.5 mg/dL indicates a possible complication of this therapy. Total parenteral nutrition can result in electrolyte imbalances, including hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood).
The other laboratory results are within normal ranges and do not indicate a complication of total parenteral nutrition.
b) A BUN level of 16 mg/dL is within the normal range.
c) A serum potassium level of 4.6 mEq/L is within the normal range.
d) A WBC count of 8,000/mm³ is within the normal range.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The nurse should atend to the client who has COPD and dementia and was agitated during the night shift first. This client may be experiencing respiratory distress or other complications related to their COPD and requires immediate assessment and intervention.
a) A client who has heart failure and is incontinent of urine requires atention, but their needs are not as urgent as those of the client with COPD and agitation.
c) A client who had a hip arthroplasty 10 days ago and reports pain with ambulation requires atention, but their needs are not as urgent as those of the client with COPD and agitation.
d) A client who had a cerebrovascular accident 6 months ago and reports constipation requires attention, but their needs are not as urgent as those of the client with COPD and agitation.
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