A patient with a longstanding diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder presents to the emergency room. The triage nurse notes upon an assessment that the patient is hyperventilating. The triage nurse is aware that hyperventilation is the MOST common cause of which acid-base imbalance?
Respiratory Acidosis
Metabolic Alkalosis
Metabolic Acidosis
Respiratory Alkalosis
The Correct Answer is D
A. Respiratory Acidosis:
Explanation: Respiratory acidosis occurs when there is inadequate elimination of carbon dioxide, leading to an increase in PaCO2 and a decrease in blood pH. This is typically associated with conditions that impair ventilation.
B. Metabolic Alkalosis:
Explanation: Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an elevated blood pH and bicarbonate (HCO3-) concentration. It is not directly caused by hyperventilation but is often associated with conditions such as excessive vomiting or excessive bicarbonate intake.
C. Metabolic Acidosis:
Explanation: Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decrease in blood pH and bicarbonate concentration. It is not directly caused by hyperventilation but may result from conditions such as diabetic ketoacidosis or lactic acidosis.
D. Respiratory Alkalosis:
Explanation: Hyperventilation is the most common cause of respiratory alkalosis. During hyperventilation, there is an excessive loss of carbon dioxide (CO2) through rapid breathing, leading to a decrease in the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) in the blood. This results in an increase in blood pH, causing an alkalotic state.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Urinalysis shows trace protein:
Explanation: While trace protein in the urine is generally better than higher levels, it doesn't provide a specific measure of blood glucose control. Protein in the urine can be an early sign of kidney damage in diabetes, but it doesn't directly indicate blood glucose control.
B. Hemoglobin A1C of 5.6%:
Explanation: Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) is a long-term indicator of blood glucose control. An HbA1C level of 5.6% is within the target range for individuals with diabetes and suggests good control of blood glucose over the past 2-3 months.
C. Fasting blood glucose of 110 mg/dL:
Explanation: Fasting blood glucose gives a snapshot of blood glucose at a specific moment. While 110 mg/dL is a fairly normal fasting level, it doesn't provide information about long-term control. A single fasting glucose measurement may not reflect overall glucose management.
D. Urine ketones are negative:
Explanation: Negative urine ketones indicate that the body is not currently using fat for energy. While this is a good sign in the moment, it doesn't give information about overall blood glucose control over time. Urine ketones can fluctuate based on various factors, including diet and activity level.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]
Explanation
A. Buffalo hump:
Explanation: A buffalo hump is associated with excess cortisol, which is not a typical manifestation of Addison's disease. Instead, patients with Addison's disease may experience weight loss and muscle wasting.
B. Hyponatremia:
Explanation: Correct. Hyponatremia (low sodium levels) can occur in Addison's disease due to the loss of aldosterone, which plays a role in sodium and water balance.
C. Decreased glucose level:
Explanation: Correct. Addison's disease can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood glucose levels) because cortisol, which is important for maintaining blood glucose, is deficient.
D. Weight gain:
Explanation: Weight gain is not a typical manifestation of Addison's disease. Instead, weight loss and muscle wasting may occur.
E. Craving for salt:
Explanation: Correct. Addison's disease can lead to salt craving, as aldosterone deficiency results in increased sodium loss and potassium retention.

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