A nurse reviews the arterial blood gas (ABG) values of a client admitted with pneumonia: pH, 7.32; PaCO2, 48 mm Hg; PaO2, 70 mm Hg; and HCO3, 24 mEq/L. What do these values indicate?
Metabolic Acidosis
Respiratory Acidosis
Metabolic Alkalosis
Respiratory Alkalosis
The Correct Answer is B
A. Metabolic Acidosis
Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH and low bicarbonate (HCO3) level. In this case, the pH is low (indicating acidosis), but the bicarbonate level is within the normal range, which is inconsistent with metabolic acidosis.
B. Respiratory Acidosis
This is correct. Respiratory acidosis is characterized by an elevated partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2), leading to a decrease in pH. The ABG values in this case indicate elevated PaCO2 and a low pH, consistent with respiratory acidosis.
C. Metabolic Alkalosis
Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and high bicarbonate (HCO3) level. In this case, the pH is low (indicating acidosis), which is inconsistent with metabolic alkalosis.
D. Respiratory Alkalosis
Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a low partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) and a high pH. In this case, the PaCO2 is elevated, which is inconsistent with respiratory alkalosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B"]
Explanation
A. I will inject my insulin by pinching up a large area of skin, and then inserting the needle.
The correct technique for subcutaneous insulin injection involves pinching a small area of skin (creating a skinfold) and inserting the needle at a 90-degree angle. Injecting into a large area might result in inadequate subcutaneous administration.
B. I can mix my regular acting insulin and my Lantus in the same syringe.
Lantus (insulin glargine) is a long-acting insulin that should not be mixed with other insulins. It should be administered separately to maintain its long-acting profile.
C. I can inject my insulin in the same location each time.
This statement is correct. Injecting insulin into the same general area consistently can help with consistent absorption.
D. I can use a needle/syringe more than once since I am the only one using it.
It is not safe to reuse needles or syringes. Single-use needles and syringes should be disposed of properly after each use to prevent infection and other complications.
E. I will discard my used syringes in a hard container, like an empty plastic milk jug.
This statement is correct. Used syringes should be discarded in a puncture-resistant container, and an empty plastic milk jug can serve as a suitable container for disposal.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Inform the primary care provider that the patient may have an infection:
Explanation: The presence of an elevated oral temperature and new onset of fine crackles on lung auscultation suggests a potential respiratory infection, which is a significant concern in a patient with sickle cell disease. Notifying the primary care provider allows for further evaluation and appropriate management of the infection.
B. Liaise with the respiratory therapist and consider high-flow oxygen:
Explanation: While oxygenation may be necessary, especially if the patient is experiencing respiratory distress, addressing the potential infection is the priority. Consulting with the respiratory therapist and considering high-flow oxygen can be part of the overall plan based on the primary care provider's recommendations.
C. Apply supplementary oxygen by nasal cannula:
Explanation: Providing oxygen support may be necessary, but it should be done in consultation with the primary care provider, who can guide the appropriate level of oxygen therapy based on the patient's condition.
D. Administer bronchodilators by nebulizer:
Explanation: Bronchodilators are typically used for conditions like asthma or COPD, and their use might not be the primary intervention in the context of a sickle cell crisis with signs of a potential respiratory infection. Addressing the infection takes precedence, and the primary care provider's input is essential in determining the appropriate course of action.
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