A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client who has metabolic acidosis.
The nurse should realize that which of the following findings contributes to the development of metabolic acidosis?

Choice A rationale:

Metabolic acidosis would likely present with rapid, deep breathing (Kussmaul respirations), not slow and shallow breathing.

Choice B rationale:

The client’s symptoms of vomiting (which can cause a loss of stomach acid), dizziness, palpitations, and numbness and tingling in the extremities and around the mouth are consistent with metabolic alkalosis.

Choice C rationale:

Respiratory alkalosis would likely present with rapid breathing, not slow and shallow breathing.

Choice D rationale:

Respiratory acidosis would likely present with rapid, shallow breathing, not slow and shallow breathing.

Choice A rationale:

Discarding any partial doses found in the cabinet in the sharps container is not the correct procedure. Partial doses should be wasted in the presence of another nurse.

Choice B rationale:

Verifying that the amounts of each medication counted match the amounts on the inventory record is the correct procedure. This ensures accurate accounting of controlled substances.

Choice C rationale:

Setting aside any controlled substances the nurse plans to give during her shift is not the correct procedure. Medications should be removed from the secure cabinet as needed.

Choice D rationale:

Co-signing any notations of wasting controlled substances on the previous shift is not the correct procedure. Wasting should be witnessed and co-signed at the time it occurs.