The arterial blood gas (ABG) results for a patient who overdosed on barbiturates are pH = 7.32, PaCO2 = 52, and HCO3 = 23. Which interpretation would the nurse rely on when planning the patient's care?
Metabolic acidosis.
Metabolic alkalosis.
Respiratory acidosis.
Respiratory alkalosis.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is c. Respiratory acidosis.
Choice A reason: Metabolic acidosis is incorrect because the HCO3 level is normal. In metabolic acidosis, we would expect to see a decreased HCO3.
Choice B reason: Metabolic alkalosis is incorrect because the HCO3 level is normal. In metabolic alkalosis, we would expect to see an increased HCO3.
Choice C reason: The given ABG results indicate a low pH (acidosis), an elevated PaCO2 (respiratory component), and a normal HCO3 (metabolic component). The low pH and increased PaCO2 suggest respiratory acidosis.
Choice D reason: Respiratory alkalosis is incorrect because the PaCO2 level is elevated, not decreased. In respiratory alkalosis, we would expect to see a decreased PaCO2.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Hypertensive crisis is characterized by severely elevated blood pressure, usually above 180/120 mm Hg. The given differences in blood pressure (a decrease of 20 mm Hg in systolic BP) do not indicate hypertensive crisis.
Choice B rationale:
An auscultatory gap refers to a temporary disappearance of sounds normally heard over the brachial artery during blood pressure measurement. This phenomenon can lead to inaccurate readings and might cause a delay in recognizing the true blood pressure values. In this case, the decrease in systolic BP when changing positions indicates the presence of an auscultatory gap, requiring the nurse to be vigilant during blood pressure measurements.
Choice C rationale:
Resistant hypertension is a term used when blood pressure remains above goal despite concurrent use of three antihypertensive agents of different classes. The given scenario does not indicate resistant hypertension but rather suggests a technical issue during blood pressure measurement due to the auscultatory gap.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Fatigue can be a symptom of uncontrolled hypertension. Elevated blood pressure can strain the heart, leading to decreased cardiac output and inadequate oxygen supply to body tissues, which can result in fatigue.
Choice B rationale:
Dizziness is a common symptom of uncontrolled hypertension. High blood pressure can cause the blood vessels in the inner ear to rupture or leak, leading to dizziness and balance issues.
Choice C rationale:
Palpitations, which are sensations of rapid, strong, or irregular heartbeats, can occur in individuals with uncontrolled hypertension. Hypertension can lead to changes in the structure and function of the heart, causing palpitations.
Choice D rationale:
Cluster headaches are not directly associated with uncontrolled hypertension. Cluster headaches are severe headaches that occur in clusters, often at the same time of day for several weeks. These headaches are not a typical symptom of hypertension.
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