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 C
Explanation

The correct answer is choice C. Uses an alcohol-based mouthwash twice a day.
Choice A rationale:
Drinking 14 glasses of water daily is generally beneficial as it helps maintain hydration and supports overall health. However, it is important to balance fluid intake to avoid overhydration.
Choice B rationale:
Shaving with an electric razor is recommended for patients with thrombocytopenia because it reduces the risk of cuts and bleeding compared to using a traditional razor.
Choice C rationale:
Using an alcohol-based mouthwash can cause dryness and irritation of the oral mucosa, which can lead to bleeding, especially in patients with thrombocytopenia. It is better to use a non-alcoholic mouthwash.
Choice D rationale:
Brushing teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush is advised to minimize the risk of gum bleeding and maintain oral hygiene.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Maximizing cardiac output is a primary goal for patients with chronic heart failure (HF) because it helps improve tissue perfusion and oxygen delivery to meet the body's demands. It is a crucial aspect of managing heart failure and preventing further complications.
Choice B rationale:
Maintaining ideal body weight is important for overall health but is not a primary goal specific to chronic heart failure management.
Choice C rationale:
While exercise is beneficial for heart failure patients, it needs to be tailored to the patient's condition. Performing aerobic exercises daily might not be suitable for all heart failure patients and is not a primary goal.
Choice D rationale:
Maintaining a steady pulse oximetry reading is important, but it is a measure of oxygen saturation in the blood and not a primary goal for managing chronic heart failure.
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