A patient's blood gases show a pH of 7.53 and bicarbonate level of 36 mEq/L. The nurse realizes that the patient is demonstrating which acid-base disorder?
Respiratory acidosis.
Metabolic alkalosis.
Respiratory alkalosis.
Metabolic acidosis.
The Correct Answer is B
Metabolic alkalosis.
Choice A rationale:
The given blood gas results show a pH of 7.53, which is alkaline (above the normal range of
7.35 to 7.45), and a high bicarbonate level of 36 mEq/L (normal range is 22 to 26 mEq/L). This combination indicates metabolic alkalosis, a condition where there is an excessive accumulation of bicarbonate in the blood, leading to increased pH.
Choice B rationale:
Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by increased blood bicarbonate levels, which can occur due to conditions like vomiting, diuretic use, or excessive ingestion of bicarbonate-containing substances. It results in symptoms such as muscle twitching, tetany, and respiratory depression.
Choice C rationale:
Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by an elevated blood pH and low carbon dioxide levels (hypocapnia). However, the bicarbonate level is not directly related to respiratory alkalosis, making this choice incorrect based on the given information.
Choice D rationale:
Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decreased blood pH and low bicarbonate levels. The presented blood gas results show an alkaline pH and high bicarbonate, making this choice incorrect.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
25 mg/dL.
Choice A rationale:
A BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen) level of 10 mg/dL is within the normal range, indicating normal kidney function. There is no indication to report this value to the provider for a dehydrated client.
Choice B rationale:
A BUN level of 18 mg/dL is within the normal range as well. This value does not suggest significant dehydration, so it is not necessary to report it to the provider in this context.
Choice C rationale:
A BUN level of 13 mg/dL is also within the normal range, and similar to choices A and B, it does not indicate severe dehydration that requires immediate reporting to the provider.
Choice D rationale:
A BUN level of 25 mg/dL is elevated, which may indicate dehydration, kidney dysfunction, or other issues affecting fluid balance. Since the client is dehydrated, this elevated value needs to be reported to the provider for further evaluation and appropriate intervention.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A, C, and D.
Choice A rationale:
Lethargy is a common symptom of metabolic alkalosis due to the body’s attempt to compensate for the altered pH balance, leading to decreased energy levels and fatigue.
Choice B rationale:
Kussmaul’s respirations are typically associated with metabolic acidosis, not alkalosis. These deep, labored breaths are the body’s way of trying to expel excess carbon dioxide to correct acidosis.
Choice C rationale:
Circumoral paresthesia, or tingling around the mouth, is a symptom of metabolic alkalosis. This occurs due to changes in calcium ion concentration affecting nerve function.
Choice D rationale:
Bicarbonate excess is a direct cause of metabolic alkalosis. Elevated bicarbonate levels in the blood lead to an increased pH, resulting in alkalosis.
Choice E rationale:
Flushing is not a typical symptom of metabolic alkalosis. It is more commonly associated with conditions that cause vasodilation or increased blood flow to the skin.
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