The nurse is reviewing the health problems for a group of assigned patients. Which patient does the nurse recognize as being at increased risk for developing metabolic alkalosis?
Patient with bulimia.
Patient with COPD.
Patient with venous stasis ulcer.
Patient on dialysis.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Patients with bulimia are at risk of developing metabolic alkalosis due to repeated episodes of vomiting, which leads to a loss of stomach acid (hydrochloric acid) and an increase in bicarbonate levels. However, this choice is not the correct answer for this question.
Choice B rationale:
Patients with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) are at risk of developing respiratory acidosis, not metabolic alkalosis. In COPD, there is impaired lung function, leading to retention of carbon dioxide and increased levels of carbonic acid in the blood.
Choice C rationale:
Patients with venous stasis ulcer may be at increased risk for developing metabolic alkalosis due to prolonged immobilization. Venous stasis can lead to reduced venous return, which may cause the kidneys to conserve bicarbonate and increase its levels in the blood, resulting in metabolic alkalosis.
Choice D rationale:
Patients on dialysis can experience metabolic imbalances, but they are more likely to develop metabolic acidosis due to the inability of the kidneys to excrete acids effectively.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Widened QRS Complexes.
Choice A rationale:
Hyperactive deep tendon reflexes are not typical findings in respiratory acidosis. They are more commonly associated with conditions like hypocalcemia or hypercalcemia.
Choice B rationale:
Warm, flushed skin is not directly related to respiratory acidosis. It is not a typical manifestation of this acid-base imbalance.
Choice C rationale:
Widened QRS complexes on an ECG are characteristic findings in respiratory acidosis. Acidosis can lead to changes in the electrical conduction of the heart, resulting in QRS complex widening.
Choice D rationale:
Bounding peripheral pulses are not directly associated with respiratory acidosis. They may be seen in conditions like hyperthyroidism or anemia but are not specific to respiratory acidosis. Remember, always interpret lab results and clinical findings in the context of the patient's overall condition, medical history, and other relevant factors to provide the best care possible.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Respiratory acidosis.
Choice A rationale:
Metabolic alkalosis occurs when there is an increase in pH and bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻) levels, which is not the case here. The pH value in this scenario is 7.22, indicating acidosis.
Choice B rationale:
Respiratory acidosis results from the retention of carbon dioxide (PaCO₂) in the blood, leading to a decrease in pH. In this case, the pH is low (7.22), and the PacO₂ is elevated (68 mm Hg), supporting the diagnosis of respiratory acidosis.
Choice C rationale:
Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decrease in pH and bicarbonate levels, along with a possible negative base excess. However, in this scenario, the base excess is -2, which does not indicate metabolic acidosis.
Choice D rationale:
Respiratory alkalosis occurs when there is a decrease in PaCO₂, leading to an increase in blood pH. The ABG values provided (pH 7.22, PacO₂ 68 mm Hg) are not consistent with respiratory alkalosis.
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