Mrs. Kalen is a 70 year old female who has arrived into the ER due to 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 would you interpret the acid-base disorder to be?

Uncompensated Respiratory Acidosis

Fully Compensated Metabolic Acidosis

Uncompensated Metabolic Alkalosis

Partially Compensated Respiratory Alkalosis

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

The pH value of 7.5 indicates alkalosis, as it is above the normal range of 7.35-7.45. The elevated bicarbonate (HCO3-) level of 34 mmol/L suggests metabolic alkalosis, as it is higher than the normal range of 22-28 mmol/L. The PaCO2 level of 40 mm Hg falls within the normal range of 35-45 mm Hg.

In this case, the primary disturbance is metabolic alkalosis, which is likely caused by vomiting leading to excessive loss of gastric acid (hydrogen ions) and chloride ions from the stomach. This loss of acid and chloride results in an imbalance of electrolytes and an increase in bicarbonate levels, leading to metabolic alkalosis.

The arterial blood gas results do not indicate any compensation. Compensation occurs when the body attempts to restore the pH balance by adjusting the respiratory or metabolic systems. In this case, there is no compensation observed because the PaCO2 level is within the normal range and not significantly altered.

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Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E","F"]

Explanation

Ensure the client receives adequate amounts of fluids: This is important to maintain hydration and thin respiratory secretions, making it easier for the client to cough and clear the airways. Check the client's mouth for stomatitis: Methylprednisolone can increase the risk of developing oral candidiasis (thrush) or stomatitis, which can cause discomfort and interfere with oral intake. Regular mouth checks can help identify these conditions early for appropriate management. Assess the client's mental status: Pneumonia, particularly in individuals with pre-existing lung disease like COPD, can lead to hypoxemia, which may affect mental status. It is important to monitor the client's mental status, as changes in cognition or confusion can be indicators of hypoxia and require prompt intervention.

Monitor for signs of hypokalemia: Methylprednisolone, like other corticosteroids, can cause electrolyte imbalances, including hypokalemia (low potassium levels). Hypokalemia can have various effects on the body, including muscle weakness and cardiac dysrhythmias. Regular monitoring of potassium levels and signs of hypokalemia is important for timely management. Monitor the client's blood glucose levels: Methylprednisolone can increase blood glucose levels, particularly in individuals with pre-existing diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is necessary to ensure proper glycemic control and prevent hyperglycemia-related complications.

Monitor the client's blood pressure for hypotension: Corticosteroids like methylprednisolone can cause fluid retention, leading to an increase in blood pressure. However, sudden withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in adrenal insufficiency and hypotension. Close monitoring of blood pressure is necessary to identify any significant changes and adjust the medication regimen accordingly.

A. Skin rash B. Hyperglycemia C. Dizziness D. Intense pruritus

Correct Answer is ["A","D"]

Explanation

Signs and symptoms associated with a hypersensitivity reaction to cephalosporin antibiotics can include:

1. Skin rash: Hypersensitivity reactions often manifest as skin rashes, which can range from mild to severe. The rash may be itchy, red, raised, and may spread to different areas of the body.

2. Intense pruritus: Pruritus refers to severe itching, which can be a prominent symptom of a hypersensitivity reaction to cephalosporins.

Dizziness and hyperglycemia are not commonly associated with hypersensitivity reactions to cephalosporins. Dizziness may be a side effect of some medications, including antibiotics, but it is not a specific symptom of a hypersensitivity reaction. Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar levels, is not typically attributed to a hypersensitivity reaction to cephalosporins. It's important to note that hypersensitivity reactions can vary in severity and may include other symptoms such as fever, swelling, difficulty breathing, wheezing, and anaphylaxis. If a hypersensitivity reaction is suspected, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention for proper evaluation and management.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and is diagnosed with pneumonia. The client has been on a long-term regimen of methylprednisolone. Which precautions should the nurse take to prevent complications? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E","F"]

Explanation

What signs and symptoms are associated with a hypersensitivity reaction that can present with a Cephalosporin?

Correct Answer is ["A","D"]

Explanation

Match using the choices provided:

Cephalosporins are similar to another group of beta-lactam antibiotics called the?

Select Dropdowns: Aminoglycosides work by binding to the dropdown which prevents dropdown

The nurse is caring for a client on a ventilator from complications of pneumonia. The nurse observes the low-pressure ventilator alarm and a pulse oximetry reading of 85%. What should be the nurse's first action?

A client is suffering from osteoarthritis in the knees and the nurse is providing care. The nurse is assessing the client's pain level and pain tolerance. Based on the nurse's understanding of pain, the nurse knows that a client's pain tolerance is most likely relieved by which of the following?

A patient with a gastric outlet obstruction has been treated with NG decompression. After the first 24 hours, the patient develops nausea and increased upper abdominal bowel sounds. What is the best action by the nurse?

A nurse is performing a musculoskeletal assessment on an older adult. What normal Physiological changes of aging does the nurse expect?