An unresponsive client was brought to the emergency room and had an arterial blood gas drawn. Ten minutes later, the laboratory calls with the following results: PaO2 74%, pH 7.22, PaCO2 85 mm Hg, and HCO3 23 mEq/L. The nurse interprets the results as indicating which imbalance?
Respiratory acidosis without compensation
Metabolic acidosis with full compensation
Respiratory acidosis with partial compensation
Metabolic acidosis without compensation
The Correct Answer is C
A. Respiratory acidosis without compensation: The pH of 7.22 indicates acidosis, but the HCO3 level of 23 mEq/L suggests that compensation is occurring because the HCO3 is within the normal range for respiratory acidosis.
B. Metabolic acidosis with full compensation: The high PaCO2 level is more indicative of respiratory issues, not metabolic acidosis. Additionally, compensation for metabolic acidosis would show elevated HCO3.
C. Respiratory acidosis with partial compensation: The elevated PaCO2 and low pH indicate respiratory acidosis. The normal HCO3 level suggests partial compensation by the kidneys.
D. Metabolic acidosis without compensation: The elevated PaCO2 and normal HCO3 suggest respiratory acidosis rather than metabolic acidosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B"]
Explanation
A. Potassium 2.9 mEq/L: This indicates hypokalemia, which is a common electrolyte imbalance associated with diuretic therapy, particularly with loop diuretics.
B. Sodium 125 mEq/L: This indicates hyponatremia, another possible electrolyte imbalance resulting from diuretic use.
C. Potassium 4.6 mEq/L: This is within the normal range and does not indicate an imbalance.
D. Sodium 139 mEq/L: This is within the normal range and does not indicate an imbalance.
E. Magnesium 2.1 mEq/L: This is within the normal range and does not indicate an imbalance.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Kayexalate (sodium polystyrene): This is the correct choice. Kayexalate is used to treat hyperkalemia (high serum potassium levels) by facilitating the removal of excess potassium from the body through the gastrointestinal tract.
B. Potassium chloride: This is used to treat hypokalemia (low potassium levels), not hyperkalemia.
C. Sodium bicarbonate: This can be used to correct metabolic acidosis and may indirectly help with potassium levels, but it is not the primary treatment for hyperkalemia.
D. Aldactone (spironolactone): This is a potassium-sparing diuretic that can increase potassium levels, which would be contraindicated in the case of hyperkalemia.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.