The nurse is caring for a diabetic patient in renal failure who is in metabolic acidosis. Which laboratory findings are consistent with metabolic acidosis?
pH 7.35, PaCO2 40 mm Hg, HCO3-25 mEq/L
pH 7.32, PaCO2 47 mm Hg. HCO3-23 mEq/L
pH 7.3, PaCO2 36 mm Hg. HCO3- 19 mEq/L
pH 7.5, PaCO2 35 mm Hg, HCO3- 35 mEq/L
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]
Explanation
A. Checking the cannula regularly helps to to ensure proper positioning and comfort.
B. Applying petroleum ointment to nares is not recommended; use water-based products instead.
C. Checking the tops of the ears for skin breakdown helps to prevent and address potential skin issues.
D. The oxygen flow rate should be monitored according to the healthcare provider's instructions, not just every other day, to make sure the prescribed amount is being received
E. A "no smoking" signs essential for safety due to the flammability of oxygen.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Sodium bicarbonate is used to treat metabolic acidosis, not respiratory alkalosis. It helps to neutralize excess acid in the blood, which is not the issue in respiratory alkalosis where the problem is a deficit of CO₂, not an excess of acid.
B. Placing the head between the knees might help with dizziness or lightheadedness but does not address the underlying issue of hyperventilation or help with CO₂ retention.
C. Breathing into a paper bag can help the client re-breathe exhaled CO₂, which helps to correct the imbalance caused by hyperventilation. This method assists in raising CO₂ levels in the blood, which can help normalize the pH and alleviate symptoms of respiratory alkalosis.
D. Insulin is used to manage blood glucose levels in diabetes and is not relevant to the treatment of respiratory alkalosis.
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