The client's arterial blood gases reveal the following results: pH 7.51, PaO2 80 mmHg, PaCO2 28 mmHg, HCO3 24 mEq/L, O2 saturation 92%. The nurse interprets this blood gas result as:
Table 9.9 Normal Arterial Blood Gas Values
|
ABG Value |
Normal Range |
|
PH |
7.35-7.45 |
|
PaCO2 |
35-45 mm Hg |
|
HCO3- |
22-26 mEq/L |
|
Base excess |
-2 to +2 |
|
PaO2 |
80-95 mm Hg |
|
SaO2 |
>95% |
respiratory alkalosis.
metabolic alkalosis.
respiratory acidosis.
metabolic acidosis.
The Correct Answer is A
A. The elevated pH and decreased PaCO2 indicate that the respiratory system is causing alkalosis, typically due to hyperventilation (excessive breathing).
B. Metabolic alkalosis would be indicated by a high pH with a normal or high HCO3. Since the HCO3 level is normal and the PaCO2 is low, this does not fit the picture of metabolic alkalosis.
C. Respiratory acidosis would be characterized by a low pH and an elevated PaCO2 due to inadequate ventilation and accumulation of carbon dioxide. Here, the pH is high, and the PaCO2 is low.
D. Metabolic acidosis would be indicated by a low pH with a low HCO3. In this case, the pH is high, and the HCO3 is normal.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. While pain can occur post-operatively and may be a sign of complications, it is not a direct indicator of bleeding. Pain can result from normal healing, surgical trauma, or other complications, but by itself, it does not specifically point to bleeding at the surgical site.
B. An increased blood pressure might not necessarily indicate bleeding. In some cases, blood pressure may increase due to pain, anxiety, or other factors. However, a significant drop in blood pressure would be more indicative of bleeding, especially in conjunction with other symptoms.
C. A decreased white blood cell count (leukopenia) is not typically associated with bleeding at the surgical site. In fact, following surgery, one might expect the white blood cell count to be normal or slightly elevated due to the body’s response to surgery.
D. This finding is indicative of bleeding at the surgical site. Blood on the pillow would suggest that there is active bleeding that has escaped from the surgical site, which is a significant concern that requires immediate assessment and intervention.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. While it's true that ulcers can be a serious complication of PAD and require careful management, exercise is generally encouraged in patients with PAD as long as it is safe and supervised. Patients should consult their healthcare provider about appropriate exercise, but not exercising altogether can worsen their condition.
B. Buying shoes in the afternoon is advisable because feet can swell throughout the day. It helps ensure a better fit and reduces the risk of blisters or skin breakdown, which is particularly important for clients with PAD.
C. This statement is generally correct, as dangling the legs can help improve circulation in some cases. Clients with PAD often experience relief when their legs are in a dependent position, as it may help increase blood flow to the extremities. However, they should also be encouraged to avoid prolonged periods of sitting.
D. This statement may indicate a misunderstanding. Compression stockings are typically used for venous issues rather than arterial diseases like PAD. In patients with PAD, wearing compression stockings may not be appropriate and could potentially compromise arterial blood flow.
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