Maria, an elementary student, was rushed to the hospital due to vomiting and a decreased level of consciousness. The patient displays slow and deep (Kussmaul breathing), and he is lethargic and irritable in response to stimulation. He appears to be dehydrated-his eyes are sunken and mucous membranes are dry-and he has a two-week history of polydipsia, polyuria, and weight loss. Measurement of arterial blood gas shows pH 7.0, Pa02 90 mm Hg. PaCO2 23 mm Hg, and HCO3 12 mmol/L; other results are Na+ 126 mmol/L. K+ 5 mmol/L, and Cl-95 mmol/L.
What is your assessment?
Respiratory Acidosis, Partially Compensated
Metabolic Acidosis, Partially, Compensated
Metabolic Alkalosis. Uncompensated
Respiratory Acidosis, Uncompensated
The Correct Answer is B
A. This option can be ruled out because the pH and PaCO2 levels indicate acidosis, but the compensation is not partial as the HCO3 is also low.
B. Maria's symptoms and the arterial blood gas values support this diagnosis. Metabolic acidosis is indicated by a low pH and a decreased bicarbonate (HCO3) level. The body attempts to compensate for this acidosis by hyperventilating, which is evidenced by her Kussmaul breathing, to decrease PaCO2. This compensation is partial because, despite the body's efforts, the pH is still significantly lower than normal.
C. This option can be ruled out because the pH is low (acidosis) rather than high (alkalosis), and the HCO3 is low rather than high.
D. Respiratory Acidosis, Uncompensated is ruled out because the pH is low (acidosis), but the PaCO2 is normal, indicating metabolic rather than respiratory involvement.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Aluminum hydroxide can lead to increased serum magnesium levels, but this is not the reason for its preference in chronic kidney disease.
B. Aluminum hydroxide is preferred because it binds to dietary phosphate, reducing serum phosphorus levels in patients with chronic kidney disease who are prone to hyperphosphatemia.
C. Aluminum hydroxide does not significantly affect serum potassium levels.
D. Aluminum hydroxide can lead to decreased serum calcium levels due to binding, but this is not the primary reason for its preference in chronic kidney disease.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Placing the client in Trendelenburg position is not appropriate in this situation. It may worsen respiratory depression caused by magnesium sulfate.
B. Absent deep-tendon reflexes and respiratory depression are signs of magnesium toxicity.
Discontinuing the medication infusion is essential to prevent further toxicity.
C. While preeclampsia can lead to complications necessitating emergency cesarean birth, the immediate concern here is addressing magnesium toxicity.
D. Assessing maternal blood glucose is not relevant to the management of magnesium toxicity.
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