For an arterial blood gas (ABG) to have full compensation, which of the following statements is correct?
pCO2 and pHCO3 and pH are abnormal but the pa02 remains between 80-100 mmHg
arterial pH & pCO2 are abnormal but the pHCO3 is starting to change
pCO2, pHCO3 and pH have adjusted in expected range in 72 hours
arterial pH is between 7.35-7.45 and the pCO2 & pO2 are abnormal
The Correct Answer is C
C. Full compensation typically occurs within 2 to 3 days (approximately 72 hours) after the onset of an acid-base disturbance. During full compensation, the primary acid-base disorder (e.g., respiratory acidosis or alkalosis, metabolic acidosis or alkalosis) is still present, but the compensatory mechanisms have effectively brought the pH, pCO2, and bicarbonate (pHCO3) levels back towards normal range.
A. Full compensation occurs when both the primary disorder (respiratory or metabolic) and the compensatory mechanism (renal or respiratory) are functioning to return the pH towards normal. In this option, while the pO2 is within the normal range, the pH, pCO2, and bicarbonate (pHCO3) are all abnormal, indicating an ongoing imbalance.
B. Full compensation occurs when all components of the ABG are within or approaching normal range, indicating that the body's compensatory mechanisms have effectively counteracted the primary acid- base disturbance. In this option, the bicarbonate (pHCO3) is mentioned as starting to change, indicating incomplete compensation.
D. While the pH is within the normal range, both the pCO2 and pO2 are abnormal, indicating a primary respiratory disturbance. In the case of full compensation, the pH, pCO2, and bicarbonate (pHCO3) levels would all be within or approaching normal range, indicating that the compensatory mechanisms have effectively counteracted the primary acid-base disturbance.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["C","D"]
Explanation
C. Providing relief from pain and other distressing symptoms is a fundamental aspect of hospice care. The nurse should assess the client's pain level and other symptoms such as dyspnea, coughing, and restlessness, and intervene accordingly. This may involve administering analgesics, antitussives, or other medications as appropriate to alleviate discomfort and promote comfort and quality of life.
D. Placing the bed in semi-Fowler's position (with the head of the bed elevated) can help improve respiratory mechanics, ease breathing, and reduce respiratory distress in clients experiencing dyspnea. This position allows for better lung expansion and can facilitate the drainage of respiratory secretions, thereby promoting comfort and alleviating symptoms. This intervention does not typically require a medical order and can be implemented by the nurse based on clinical assessment.
A. Calling for transportation to the hospital may not be necessary or appropriate in this situation, especially considering that the client is under hospice care and experiencing changes in respiratory status and restlessness, which could be indicative of end-of-life processes. Hospice care focuses on providing comfort and symptom management in the home setting, and hospitalization may not align with the client's goals of care at this stage.
B. Initiating low-flow oxygen per nasal cannula may be appropriate to provide comfort and relieve hypoxia if the client is experiencing respiratory distress. However, this intervention would typically require a medical order, as oxygen therapy should be prescribed based on assessment findings and clinical indications.
E. Administering anti-anxiety medications may be considered if the client is experiencing significant anxiety or agitation that is distressing and impacting their comfort. However, the decision to administer anti-anxiety medications should be based on thorough assessment and consideration of the client's overall condition, goals of care, and potential risks and benefits. This intervention would typically require a medical order.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. The sigmoid colon is the last part of the large intestine before the rectum. It functions to store fecal material and absorb water and electrolytes. Fecal material passing through the sigmoid colon tends to become more solid as water is absorbed, resulting in a more formed stool compared to other parts of the colon.
A. The transverse colon is located in the upper abdomen and is responsible for further absorption of water and electrolytes from the stool. Fecal material passing through the transverse colon tends to become more solid as water is absorbed, but it may not be as solid as stool from the descending colon or sigmoid colon.
B. The ascending colon is where stool is in a more liquid form as it moves up from the cecum. It undergoes further absorption of water and electrolytes as it travels through the colon, but it typically does not produce solid fecal output.
C. The ileum is the final portion of the small intestine and connects to the large intestine (colon). Stool passing through the ileum is still in a relatively liquid state as it contains undigested food particles, bile salts, and digestive enzymes. The primary function of the ileum is absorption of nutrients rather than water reabsorption, so fecal output from an ileostomy is usually more liquid.

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