The nurse is caring for a client with respiratory alkalosis. Which arterial blood gas data does the nurse anticipate finding?
pH-7.10. CO2-78. HCO3-25
pH-7.55. C02-20. HCO3-24
pH-7.25, CO2-64, HCO3-22
Ph-7.0. CO2-72. HCO3-26
The Correct Answer is B
Respiratory alkalosis is a condition in which the blood pH is elevated due to a decrease in the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood. This can occur when a person breathes too rapidly or deeply (hyperventilation), causing them to exhale too much CO2. In this option, the pH is elevated (normal range is 7.35-7.45), the CO2 is low (normal range is 35-45 mmHg), and the bicarbonate (HCO3) level is within the normal range (22-26 mEq/L), which are all consistent with respiratory alkalosis.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Hyponatremia is a condition where the sodium levels in the blood are abnormally low. It can cause confusion, seizures, and even coma in severe cases. The IV fluids hanging are 0.33% NaCI, which means they have a low sodium concentration, and may be contributing to the patient's hyponatremia.
Given that the patient is becoming increasingly confused, it is important to assess his mental status and monitor him closely to prevent harm. However, restraining the patient should not be the first course of action. Instead, the nurse should focus on identifying the underlying cause of the hyponatremia and taking appropriate steps to address it.
Therefore, the next step would be to get an order for additional lab work to assess the patient's electrolyte levels and identify the cause of the hyponatremia. This will help to guide further treatment and management decisions for the patient.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The use of an incentive spirometer is essential after surgery to prevent complications such as pneumonia and atelectasis. Atelectasis is the collapse of air sacs in the lungs, which can occur after surgery due to decreased respiratory effort and shallow breathing. An incentive spirometer helps the patient take deep breaths and increase their lung volume, preventing these complications.
Breathing rapidly to prevent pneumonia (option b) is not recommended as it can lead to hyperventilation and other respiratory complications.
Option c is incorrect because patient education is a crucial aspect of post-operative care, and the patient needs to be aware of the potential complications and how to prevent them.
The use of a chest tube (option d) is not usually required after hip surgery, and it is not a priority teaching for the patient.
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