The nurse caring for a client in the early stages of hypovolemic shock who is hyperventilating. The nurse monitors for which acid-base imbalance based on this clinical presentation?
Respiratory acidosis.
Respiratory alkalosis.
Metabolic acidosis.
Metabolic alkalosis.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Respiratory acidosis. Respiratory acidosis occurs when there is inadequate ventilation, leading to increased carbon dioxide levels in the blood. Hyperventilation would not cause respiratory acidosis.
Choice B reason: Respiratory alkalosis. Hyperventilation results in excessive expulsion of carbon dioxide, leading to a decrease in carbonic acid levels in the blood. This causes respiratory alkalosis, which is expected in the early stages of hypovolemic shock as the body attempts to compensate for decreased oxygen delivery.
Choice C reason: Metabolic acidosis. Metabolic acidosis results from an accumulation of acid or loss of bicarbonate in the body. It is typically seen in the later stages of shock when lactic acid builds up due to anaerobic metabolism.
Choice D reason: Metabolic alkalosis. Metabolic alkalosis occurs due to an excessive loss of acids (e.g., through vomiting) or an accumulation of bicarbonate. Hyperventilation does not cause metabolic alkalosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Cool, moist skin. Cool, moist skin is an early sign of shock as the body redirects blood flow away from the skin to vital organs. This is part of the body's compensatory mechanisms to maintain perfusion.
Choice B reason: Increased bowel sounds. Bowel sounds typically decrease during shock due to reduced blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract. Increased bowel sounds would not be expected.
Choice C reason: Restlessness. Restlessness is an early sign of shock indicating reduced oxygen delivery to the brain. The body responds by becoming more alert and anxious, reflecting increased sympathetic nervous system activity.
Choice D reason: Increased respiratory rate. An increased respiratory rate is a compensatory mechanism to improve oxygenation and reduce carbon dioxide levels in the blood. This is common in the early stages of shock.
Choice E reason: Decreased blood glucose. Blood glucose levels are generally not an immediate indicator in the early stages of shock. The body's stress response can actually increase blood glucose levels initially.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Cyanosis. Cyanosis, or a bluish tint to the skin, indicates significant hypoxemia or poor oxygenation. While it can occur in severe anaphylaxis, it is not a primary integumentary manifestation.
Choice B reason: Urticaria. Urticaria, or hives, is a common integumentary manifestation of anaphylactic shock. It appears as raised, red, itchy welts on the skin due to an allergic reaction.
Choice C reason: Petechiae. Petechiae are small, pinpoint hemorrhages under the skin and are not typically associated with anaphylactic shock. They are more related to conditions involving bleeding or clotting disorders.
Choice D reason: Ecchymosis. Ecchymosis, or bruising, is not a characteristic manifestation of anaphylactic shock. It is more related to trauma or bleeding disorders.
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