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. Leukemia:
Explanation: Leukemia is a cancer of the blood-forming tissues, including the bone marrow and lymphatic system. It typically presents with an abnormal increase in white blood cells. While fatigue can be a symptom, increased bilirubin concentration and an increased reticulocyte count are not typical findings in leukemia.
B. Hemolytic Anemia:
Explanation: Hemolytic anemia is characterized by the premature destruction of red blood cells, leading to an increased release of bilirubin (from the breakdown of hemoglobin) and an increased reticulocyte count (as the body attempts to compensate by producing more red blood cells). This is a likely possibility given the presented symptoms.
C. Hypoproliferative Anemia:
Explanation: Hypoproliferative anemia is characterized by a decreased production of red blood cells. It is unlikely in this scenario, as an increased reticulocyte count suggests an attempt by the bone marrow to increase red blood cell production.
D. Thrombocytopenia:
Explanation: Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by a low platelet count. It does not typically present with an increased bilirubin concentration or an increased reticulocyte count.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Increase the intake of vitamin E to enhance absorption:
While vitamin C can enhance iron absorption, vitamin E does not play a significant role in iron absorption. Vitamin C-rich foods can be advised to enhance iron absorption.
B. Iron will cause the stools to darken in color:
This statement is accurate. Iron supplements can cause stools to appear darker in color, often black or greenish-black. This change in stool color is normal and expected when taking iron supplements.
C. Take the iron with dairy products to enhance absorption:
Dairy products can inhibit iron absorption. It's better to take iron supplements with vitamin C-rich foods or orange juice to enhance absorption.
D. Limit foods high in fiber due to the risk for diarrhea:
Fiber-rich foods do not necessarily need to be limited when taking iron supplements. However, some individuals may experience constipation when taking iron supplements, in which case increasing fluid intake and dietary fiber can help alleviate constipation.
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