A patient's blood gases show a pH of 7.53, PCO2 of 48, and HCO3 of 36 mEq/L. The nurse realizes that the acid-base disorder this patient is demonstrating is which of the following?
Respiratory Acidosis
Respiratory Alkalosis
Metabolic Alkalosis
Metabolic Acidosis
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Respiratory Acidosis is characterized by a low pH and a high PCO2, which is not the case here.
Choice B reason: Respiratory Alkalosis would involve a high pH and a low PCO2, which is not consistent with the patient's PCO2 level.
Choice C reason: Metabolic Alkalosis is indicated by a high pH and a high HCO3, which matches the patient's blood gas values.
Choice D reason: Metabolic Acidosis would show a low pH and a low HCO3, which is the opposite of this patient's presentation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Lactated Ringer's solution does not provide the necessary glucose and may not be compatible with TPN.
Choice B reason: 0.45% sodium chloride (0.45% NaCl) is a hypotonic solution and does not provide adequate calories for a patient on TPN.
Choice C reason: 10% dextrose in water (D10W) is the appropriate choice as it provides a source of calories and prevents hypoglycemia until the next TPN bag is available.
Choice D reason: 5% dextrose in lactated Ringer's solution (D5LR) provides less dextrose than D10W and may not prevent hypoglycemia as effectively.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Level of consciousness is the most basic and sensitive indicator of altered brain function and is considered the most reliable indicator of neurologic status.
Choice B reason: Temperature is not a direct indicator of neurologic status and does not change as rapidly in response to neurologic events.
Choice C reason: Blood pressure can be affected by neurologic changes, but it is not as sensitive or specific as the level of consciousness.
Choice D reason: Pulse rate is not a direct indicator of neurologic status and can be influenced by a variety of non- neurologic factors.
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