A patient who was involved in a motor vehicle crash has had a tracheostomy placed to allow for continued mechanical ventilation. How should the nurse interpret the following arterial blood gas results: pH 7.48, PaO₂ 85 mm Hg, PaCO₂ 32 mm Hg, and HCO₃ 25 mEq/L?
Metabolic acidosis
Metabolic alkalosis
Respiratory acidosis
Respiratory alkalosis
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decrease in blood pH (less than 7.35) due to a primary decrease in bicarbonate (HCO₃). The arterial blood gas results in this scenario do not indicate metabolic acidosis, as the pH is elevated and HCO₃ is within the normal range.
Choice B reason: Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an increase in blood pH (greater than 7.45) due to a primary increase in bicarbonate (HCO₃). In this case, the pH is indeed elevated, but the bicarbonate level is normal, making this condition unlikely.
Choice C reason: Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a decrease in blood pH (less than 7.35) due to a primary increase in PaCO₂. The arterial blood gas results show an elevated pH and a decreased PaCO₂, which are not consistent with respiratory acidosis.
Choice D reason: Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by an increase in blood pH (greater than 7.45) due to a primary decrease in PaCO₂. In this scenario, the pH is elevated at 7.48, and the PaCO₂ is decreased at 32 mm Hg, indicating respiratory alkalosis. The bicarbonate level is within the normal range, further supporting this interpretation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Endocardial infection is not commonly associated with Alzheimer's disease. While it can occur, it is not a frequent infection related to chronic dementia.
Choice B reason: Brain infections, such as encephalitis, can occur but are not among the most common infections seen in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
Choice C reason: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in patients with Alzheimer's disease due to factors such as immobility, incontinence, and the use of catheters. UTIs can exacerbate confusion and other dementia-related symptoms.
Choice D reason: Pneumonia is a common and serious infection in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Due to cognitive impairment, these patients may have difficulty swallowing, leading to aspiration pneumonia. Additionally, their weakened immune systems make them more susceptible to respiratory infections.
Choice E reason: Gastrointestinal infections are not typically associated with Alzheimer's disease as a common complication. While they can occur, they are not as prevalent as UTIs and pneumonia in this patient population.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Weight gain is not commonly associated with Parkinson's disease. In fact, patients with PD often experience weight loss due to increased energy expenditure from tremors and muscle rigidity, as well as difficulties with eating.
Choice B reason: Cardiovascular problems are not directly caused by Parkinson's disease. While PD patients may have cardiovascular issues, these are typically related to age or other comorbid conditions rather than PD itself.
Choice C reason: Swallowing challenges, or dysphagia, are a significant concern for patients with Parkinson's disease. The motor symptoms of PD, including muscle rigidity and bradykinesia, can affect the muscles involved in swallowing, leading to difficulty eating and an increased risk of aspiration and choking. Addressing swallowing challenges is crucial for maintaining nutrition and preventing respiratory complications.
Choice D reason: Obesity is not a typical issue for patients with Parkinson's disease. As mentioned earlier, weight loss is more common due to the disease's impact on motor function and the effort required for daily activities.
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