Anna's mother has been suffering from persistent vomiting for two days now. She appears to be lethargic and weak and has myalgia. She is noted to have dry mucus membranes and her capillary refill takes >4 seconds. She is diagnosed as having gastroenteritis and dehydration. Measurement of arterial blood gas shows pH 7.5, PaO2 85 mm Hg, PaCO2 40 mm Hg, and HCO3 34 mmol/L.
What acid-base disorder is shown?
Respiratory Acidosis. Partially Compensated
Metabolic Alkalosis, Partially Compensated
Respiratory Alkalosis. Uncompensated
Metabolic Alkalosis, Uncompensated
The Correct Answer is B
A. Respiratory Acidosis, both compensated and uncompensated, is characterized by an elevated PaCO2, which is not present in this case.
B. The elevated pH (7.5) and HCO3 (34 mmol/L) indicate metabolic alkalosis. The elevated pH and the slightly elevated PaCO2 (40 mm Hg) suggest the partially compensated state, which is the respiratory compensation attempting to correct the alkalosis.
C. The fact that the PaCO2 is not low rules out respiratory alkalosis.
D. The arterial blood gas values indicate a high pH (7.5), a normal PaCO2 (40 mm Hg), and an elevated HCO3 (34 mmol/L), which are indicative of metabolic alkalosis. However, the elevated pH and the slightly elevated PaCO2 (40 mm Hg) suggest a partially compensated state.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. A urine output of 175 ml over 8 hours indicates oliguria, which can be concerning in a client with impaired renal function. It suggests decreased kidney function and inadequate elimination of waste products and fluids, necessitating prompt notification of the healthcare provider.
B. This amount of urine output over 24 hours is within normal range and does not typically warrant immediate notification unless there are other concerning symptoms.
C. Cloudy urine may indicate the presence of urinary tract infection or other issues, but it alone may not require immediate notification of the provider.
D. While strong-smelling urine can be indicative of various conditions, it alone may not necessitate immediate provider notification unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Hyperglycemia is associated with diabetes mellitus, not diabetes insipidus. Diabetes insipidus is characterized by excessive thirst and urination due to inadequate secretion of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), not hyperglycemia.
B. Dehydration is a hallmark finding in diabetes insipidus due to excessive urination and fluid loss. Clients with diabetes insipidus may exhibit signs of dehydration, such as dry mucous membranes, decreased skin turgor, and hypotension.
C. Bradycardia is not typically associated with diabetes insipidus.
D. Polyphagia, or excessive hunger, is a symptom of diabetes mellitus, not diabetes insipidus.
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