A patient's ABG results came back with the following values: pH 7.25, CO2 40, HCO3 22. How would you, as the nurse, interpret these results?
Metabolic acidosis
Respiratory acidosis
Metabolic alkalosis
Respiratory alkalosis
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH and a normal or low HCO3. In this case, the pH is 7.25, which is below the normal range of 7.35-7.45, and the HCO3 is 22, which is at the lower end of the normal range of 22-26 mEq/L, indicating metabolic acidosis.
Choice B reason: Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a high CO2 level. However, in this scenario, the CO2 is 40, which is within the normal range of 35-45 mmHg, ruling out respiratory acidosis.
Choice C reason: Metabolic alkalosis would present with a high pH and a high HCO3 level. Since the pH is low, metabolic alkalosis is not the correct answer.
Choice D reason: Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a low CO2 level and a high pH. Given that the CO2 is normal and the pH is low, respiratory alkalosis is not the condition indicated by these ABG results.
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Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This statement is incorrect; patients have the right to refuse treatment at any time, even after signing the consent form.
Choice B reason: While the charge nurse may review the risks, it is typically the responsibility of the provider performing the procedure to ensure the patient understands the risks involved.
Choice C reason: A witness may be required to sign the consent form, but it does not necessarily have to be the patient's partner.
Choice D reason: It is important for the provider to discuss all treatment options with the patient, so they can make an informed decision.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and a high HCO3 level, which is not present in this scenario.
Choice B reason: Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a high PaCO2 and a low pH. Although the pH is low here, the PaCO2 is also low, ruling out respiratory acidosis.
Choice C reason: Metabolic acidosis is indicated by a low pH and a low HCO3 level, which aligns with the patient's ABG results.
Choice D reason: Respiratory alkalosis would present with a high pH and a low PaCO2, which is not the case here.
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