A nurse is reviewing the laboratory values of a client who has respiratory acidosis. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Potassium 3.3 mEq/L.
HCO3- 30 mEq/L.
PacO2 50 mm Hg.
pH 7.45.
The Correct Answer is C
PacO2 50 mm Hg. Choice A rationale:
Potassium levels are not directly related to respiratory acidosis. Potassium levels may be affected in certain conditions, but they are not specific indicators of respiratory acidosis.
Choice B rationale:
HCO3- (bicarbonate) levels may be elevated in metabolic alkalosis, not respiratory acidosis. In respiratory acidosis, the primary abnormality is an increased PacO2, not HCO3-.
Choice C rationale:
The partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PacO2) is a key parameter in diagnosing respiratory acidosis. In this case, a PacO2 of 50 mm Hg suggests hypoventilation and an excess of carbon dioxide in the blood, contributing to acidosis.
Choice D rationale:
The pH level given (pH 7.45) is within the normal range, which contradicts the diagnosis of respiratory acidosis. In respiratory acidosis, the pH would be expected to be below the normal range of 7.35-7.45 due to increased carbon dioxide levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Hypernatremia.
Choice A rationale:
Hypernatremia is the most likely condition the client is experiencing based on the laboratory result of Sodium 144 mEq/L, which is above the normal range of 136 to 145 mEq/L. Hypernatremia is an elevated sodium level in the blood and can cause various symptoms like extreme thirst, dry mucous membranes, and altered mental status.
Choice B rationale:
To address hypernatremia, the nurse should take two actions. Action 1: Prepare to check a serum albumin level. This is important as hypernatremia can be caused by a relative water deficit due to excess solutes, and measuring serum albumin helps assess the body's water balance. Action 2: Request a STAT ECG. Hypernatremia can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, so an ECG is essential to monitor the patient's heart rhythm. Parameters to Monitor: Parameter 1 - Serum bicarbonate level: Monitoring bicarbonate levels helps evaluate acid-base balance and assess the impact of hypernatremia on the body's buffering systems. Parameter 2 - Intake and Output: Monitoring the patient's fluid intake and output is crucial to ensure proper hydration and track response to treatment.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Other electrolyte disturbances.
Choice A rationale:
Drug toxicity is not directly related to hypocalcemia. The main concern in hypocalcemia is the calcium imbalance itself, not drug toxicity.
Choice B rationale:
Other electrolyte disturbances should be assessed because imbalances in other electrolytes, such as potassium and magnesium, are often associated with hypocalcemia. Electrolyte imbalances can interact and exacerbate each other, potentially leading to more severe complications.
Choice C rationale:
Hypertension is not a typical assessment finding in hypocalcemia. Hypertension is not directly related to calcium levels but may have other underlying causes.
Choice D rationale:
Visual disturbances are not commonly associated with hypocalcemia. Hypocalcemia is more likely to present with neuromuscular and cardiovascular symptoms, rather than visual disturbances.
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