A patient's arterial blood gas (ABG) results show a pH of 7.35, PaCO2 of 40 mmHg, and HCO3- of 21 mEq/L. What type of acid-base imbalance is present and how would you classify it?

A. Client's age: Age is a non-modifiable risk factor for stroke. As individuals get older, their risk of stroke increases due to vascular changes, but this is not something that can be altered or controlled through interventions or lifestyle changes.
B. History of sickle cell disease: Sickle cell disease increases stroke risk due to its effects on blood viscosity and vessel occlusion, but it is a genetic condition. Therefore, it is considered a non-modifiable risk factor, although managing the disease can help reduce complications.
C. Parent who has cardiovascular disease: Having a parent with cardiovascular disease increases one’s risk for stroke due to inherited genetic predisposition. However, this familial risk is not something the client can change, making it a non-modifiable factor.
D. Hypertension: Hypertension is the most significant modifiable risk factor for stroke. It can be managed through lifestyle changes, medication, and monitoring, thereby significantly reducing the client’s risk of future strokes.

• Chest pain: Crushing, retrosternal chest pain is highly suggestive of cardiac ischemia or acute coronary syndrome. It requires immediate evaluation due to the risk of myocardial infarction. The presence of fatigue and weakness adds to the urgency. Chest pain is always prioritized due to its life-threatening potential.
• Visual disturbance: Visual changes may indicate hypertension, hyperglycemia, or neurological issues. While concerning, they are typically not immediately life-threatening. These symptoms can be evaluated after cardiac causes are ruled out. They support further systemic investigation.
• Fatigue: Fatigue is a nonspecific symptom seen in many chronic conditions like diabetes, anemia, or heart failure. It does not signal an emergency on its own. It may be related to underlying cardiac issues but is not prioritized over chest pain.
• Increased urination: Polyuria often indicates uncontrolled blood glucose levels or diabetes. It should prompt further testing but does not require immediate intervention. It is a chronic symptom rather than an acute, life-threatening one.