Mr. Casper, a 55-year-old patient with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), consumes about 16 Tums antacid tablets daily. An Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) test is conducted to evaluate his acid/base balance. The results are as follows: pH 7.46, CO2 46, PO2 86, HCO3 29, SaO2 97%. What is the interpretation of these results?
Uncompensated Respiratory Acidosis
Compensated Metabolic Acidosis
Partially Compensated Metabolic Alkalosis
Partially Compensated Respiratory Acidosis
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Uncompensated Respiratory Acidosis is characterized by a low pH (less than 7.35) and a high pCO2 (greater than 45 mmHg). In this case, the pH is slightly elevated (7.46), making this option less likely.
While the pCO2 is elevated (46 mmHg), the body has begun to compensate, as evidenced by the elevated HCO3 (29 mEq/L). This partial compensation does not align with an uncompensated respiratory acidosis.
Choice B rationale:
Compensated Metabolic Acidosis would present with a normal pH (7.35-7.45) due to full compensation by the respiratory system. In this case, the pH is slightly elevated (7.46), which is not consistent with full compensation.
Additionally, the HCO3 is elevated (29 mEq/L), which is characteristic of metabolic alkalosis, not acidosis.
Choice C rationale:
Partially Compensated Metabolic Alkalosis is the most likely interpretation based on the ABG results. The pH is elevated (7.46), indicating alkalosis.
The HCO3 is also elevated (29 mEq/L), which is the primary cause of metabolic alkalosis.
The pCO2 is elevated (46 mmHg), which is a compensatory mechanism to try to normalize the pH. However, the compensation is not complete, as the pH is still slightly elevated.
This partial compensation is consistent with partially compensated metabolic alkalosis.
Choice D rationale:
Partially Compensated Respiratory Acidosis would present with a low pH (less than 7.35) and an elevated pCO2 (greater than 45 mmHg).
The HCO3 would also be elevated, but to a lesser degree than in metabolic alkalosis, as it's a secondary compensatory mechanism.
In this case, the pH is slightly elevated (7.46), making respiratory acidosis less likely.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
While promptly removing urinary catheters can reduce the risk of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs), it addresses only one specific type of infection. It doesn't comprehensively address other common healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) like central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs), surgical site infections (SSIs), ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), and Clostridium difficile infections (CDI).
Education about infection control methods, however, encompasses a broader range of preventive measures that can be applied to various HAIs, making it a more effective strategy for overall infection prevention.
Choice C rationale:
Placing patients in appropriate isolation can prevent the spread of infections, but it's a reactive measure that's implemented after an infection has already occurred. It doesn't address the root causes of infections or prevent their occurrence in the first place.
Education about infection control methods, on the other hand, is a proactive approach that aims to prevent infections from happening in the first place by teaching staff about proper hygiene practices, aseptic techniques, and other infection prevention strategies.
Choice D rationale:
Monitoring hand hygiene practices is crucial for infection prevention, but it's only one aspect of a comprehensive infection control program. Education about infection control methods goes beyond hand hygiene and covers various other preventive measures, such as:
Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) Aseptic technique during invasive procedures
Proper cleaning and disinfection of equipment and surfaces Proper handling of patient waste
Recognition of signs and symptoms of infection Prompt reporting of potential outbreaks
Therefore, educating staff members about infection control methods is the most effective action the nursing manager can take to prevent infections in the hospital unit because it provides a comprehensive approach to infection prevention, addressing various aspects of HAI prevention and promoting a culture of safety among healthcare staff.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice B.
Choice A rationale: Massaging the site with scented oils is not recommended as it may further irritate the inflamed tissue. Additionally, scented oils can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation, worsening the client's discomfort.
Choice B rationale: Applying warm compresses to the site increases blood flow, reduces inflammation, and provides pain relief. Warm compresses also promote healing by improving circulation and reducing edema, making them an appropriate intervention for phlebitis.
Choice C rationale: Administering topical lidocaine to the site is generally not recommended without a prescription. Although it may provide localized pain relief, it can mask underlying issues and delay appropriate medical assessment and treatment.
Choice D rationale: Administering prescribed oral pain medication can provide systemic pain relief. However, it may not be as effective as a localized treatment for reducing inflammation and discomfort at the site of the peripheral vascular access device.
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