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The nurse is caring for a diabetic patient in renal failure who is in metabolic acidosis. Which laboratory findings are consistent with metabolic acidosis?

A.

pH 7.35, PaCO2 40 mm Hg, HCO3-25 mEq/L

B.

pH 7.32, PaCO2 47 mm Hg. HCO3-23 mEq/L

C.

pH 7.3, PaCO2 36 mm Hg. HCO3- 19 mEq/L

D.

pH 7.5, PaCO2 35 mm Hg, HCO3- 35 mEq/L

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A.    pH 7.35, PaCO2 40 mm Hg, HCO3-25 mEq/L: This is within normal ranges and does not indicate acidosis.
B.    pH 7.32, PaCO2 47 mm Hg. HCO3-23 mEq/L: This indicates respiratory acidosis, not metabolic.
C.    pH 7.3, PaCO2 36 mm Hg. HCO3- 19 mEq/L: This indicates metabolic acidosis. The pH is low (acidic), and the HCO3- (bicarbonate) is decreased. The PaCO2 is within normal limits, indicating the respiratory system is compensating for the metabolic acidosis.
D.    pH 7.5, PaCO2 35 mm Hg, HCO3- 35 mEq/L: This indicates alkalosis, not acidosis.
 


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Slow and steady bubbling in the suction control chamber is expected and indicates that the system is functioning properly. It is designed to regulate the pressure within the chest cavity by allowing excess air and fluid to escape, ensuring that the lungs can re-expand properly
B. Checking for leaks is are unnecessary as the system is functioning as expected.
C. Checking the suction control outlet is are unnecessary as the system is functioning as expected.
D. Clamping the chest tube is are unnecessary as the system is functioning as expected.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. This is caused by an increase in acid or a loss of bicarbonate. Vomiting does not typically lead to this.
B. This is caused by a buildup of carbon dioxide in the blood, usually due to inadequate breathing.
C. This is caused by hyperventilation and excessive loss of carbon dioxide.
D. This is caused by a loss of acid or an increase in bicarbonate. Vomiting can lead to a loss of stomach acid, resulting in metabolic alkalosis.

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