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

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason: Synthroid (levothyroxine) is the most commonly prescribed medication for hypothyroidism. It is a synthetic form of thyroxine (T4), which replaces the deficient hormone in patients with hypothyroidism and helps normalize their thyroid function.

Choice B reason: PTU (Propylthiouracil) is typically used for the treatment of hyperthyroidism, not hypothyroidism. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of thyroid hormones.

Choice C reason: Tapazole (methimazole) is also used for the treatment of hyperthyroidism, similar to PTU. It is not used to treat hypothyroidism.

Choice D reason: Propranolol is a beta-blocker that is used to manage symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as tremors and palpitations. It does not treat hypothyroidism.

A. Dementia B. VTE C. Fluid overload D. Infection E. Unrelieved pain

Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]

Explanation

Choice A reason: Dementia is not a typical complication directly related to the post-operative period of a total hip replacement. While elderly patients may have underlying cognitive issues, dementia is not considered a direct post-op complication.

Choice B reason: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common post-operative complication, particularly in orthopedic surgeries like total hip replacement. Due to immobility and surgical stress, patients are at higher risk for blood clots forming in the veins, which can be life-threatening if they travel to the lungs.

Choice C reason: Fluid overload can occur due to the administration of intravenous fluids during surgery. Monitoring for signs of fluid overload, such as swelling, shortness of breath, and increased blood pressure, is crucial to ensure proper fluid balance and prevent complications like heart failure.

Choice D reason: Infection is a significant risk after surgery, especially in procedures like total hip replacement. Monitoring for signs of infection, such as fever, increased pain, redness, swelling, and drainage from the surgical site, is essential to detect and treat infections early.

Choice E reason: Unrelieved pain is a critical aspect to monitor post-operatively. Effective pain management is crucial for patient comfort, mobility, and recovery. Uncontrolled pain can impede rehabilitation and recovery, increasing the risk of complications.

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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?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A patient is being discharged home for treatment of hypothyroidism. Which medication is most commonly prescribed for this condition?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]

Explanation

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