A client receiving mechanical ventilation has a pH of 7.26, PaCO2 of 68 mm Hg, and a PaO2 of 92 mm Hg. Which intervention should the nurse implement?

Choice A rationale:

Correcting electrolytes that are out of normal range is a crucial goal of therapy for this client. In diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), the body’s cells are unable to use glucose for energy due to a lack of insulin. This leads to the breakdown of fat for energy, producing ketones as a by-product. Ketones are acidic and can cause the blood’s pH to decrease, leading to metabolic acidosis. This process also leads to an increased production and excretion of electrolytes such as potassium and sodium. Therefore, correcting these electrolyte imbalances is a key goal of therapy.

Choice B rationale:

While promoting oxygenation to tissues is generally important in critical care, it is not a specific goal in the management of DKA. The primary issues in DKA are metabolic in nature, including hyperglycemia, ketosis, and acidosis.

Choice C rationale:

Preventing hyperventilation is not a specific goal in the management of DKA. Hyperventilation in DKA is a compensatory mechanism for metabolic acidosis (Kussmaul breathing). The body tries to expel more carbon dioxide to reduce the acidity of the blood.

Choice D rationale:

Reversing dehydration is another important goal of therapy for this client. In DKA, high blood glucose levels lead to osmotic diuresis, where water is drawn into the urine from the blood, leading to dehydration. This can cause hypotension and reduced tissue perfusion. Therefore, reversing dehydration through fluid replacement is a key part of treatment.

Choice E rationale:

Replacing insulin is a fundamental goal of therapy for this client. Insulin deficiency is the primary cause of DKA. Insulin allows glucose to enter cells where it can be used for energy, preventing the breakdown of fat for energy and the subsequent production of ketones.

Choice F rationale:

Providing respiratory support may be necessary in severe cases of DKA where the patient’s compensatory respiratory efforts are insufficient to maintain adequate gas exchange. However, it is not one of the primary goals of therapy in DKA management.

Choice A rationale:

Impaired physical mobility relative to muscle rigidity has the highest priority in the nursing care plan for a client diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease is characterized by motor symptoms such as muscle rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability. Impaired physical mobility can significantly impact a patient's ability to perform activities of daily living and maintain independence. Addressing this issue is crucial to enhance the patient's quality of life and prevent complications such as falls.

Choice B rationale:

While the risk for aspiration relative to muscle weakness is a valid concern in Parkinson's disease, impaired physical mobility takes precedence as it directly affects the patient's ability to move, ambulate, and perform daily activities. Addressing mobility issues is fundamental to maintaining overall functioning and independence.

Choice C rationale:

The risk for constipation relative to immobility is important to address, but it is not the highest priority. Impaired physical mobility can lead to multiple complications, including constipation. However, improving mobility should be the primary focus to prevent a wide range of issues associated with Parkinson's disease.

Choice D rationale:

Self-care deficit relative to motor disturbance is a concern in Parkinson's disease, but it is not the highest priority. Impaired physical mobility directly impacts a patient's ability to engage in self-care activities. By addressing mobility issues first, the nurse can facilitate the patient's ability to perform self-care tasks more independently in the long run.