The nurse reviews the blood gas results of a client with atelectasis. The nurse analyzes the results and determines that the client is experiencing respiratory acidosis. Which results validate the nurse's findings?
pH 7.28, pCO2 36, HCO3 23
pH 7.52, pCO2 28, HCO3 25
pH 7.25, pCO2 50, HCO3 22
pH7.35, pCO2 40, HCO3 24
The Correct Answer is C
A. pH 7.28, pCO2 36, HCO3 23:
Explanation: The pH is low, indicating acidosis. However, the pCO2 is within the normal range, which is not consistent with respiratory acidosis. The HCO3 is slightly low but not significantly, and this doesn't align with typical findings in respiratory acidosis.
B. pH 7.52, pCO2 28, HCO3 25:
Explanation: The pH is high, indicating alkalosis. The pCO2 is below the normal range, which is not consistent with respiratory acidosis. The HCO3 is within the normal range, and these values are not typical for respiratory acidosis.
C. pH 7.25, pCO2 50, HCO3 22:
Explanation: The pH is low, indicating acidosis. The pCO2 is elevated, which is typical in respiratory acidosis. The HCO3 is within the normal range, suggesting uncompensated respiratory acidosis.
D. pH 7.35, pCO2 40, HCO3 24:
Explanation: The pH is within the normal range, and both pCO2 and HCO3 are normal. These values do not indicate acidosis.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Monitoring the patient's breathing and reviewing the patient's arterial blood gases:
Rationale: While respiratory status is crucial in any patient assessment, arterial blood gases primarily evaluate respiratory function. Neutropenia directly affects the immune system, not respiratory function.
Appropriateness: Not directly related to assessing neutropenia.
B. Monitoring the patient's temperature and reviewing the patient's complete blood count with differential:
Rationale: Neutropenia can cause fever due to the increased risk of infection. Monitoring temperature and reviewing the complete blood count (CBC) with differential, specifically the neutrophil count, is essential in evaluating neutropenia and identifying potential infections.
Appropriateness: Correct. Monitoring temperature and reviewing CBC with differential are crucial in assessing neutropenia.
C. Monitoring the patient's blood pressure and reviewing the patient's hematocrit:
Rationale: Blood pressure assessment and hematocrit evaluation are essential aspects of general patient care but are not specific to neutropenia.
Appropriateness: Not directly related to assessing neutropenia.
D. Monitoring the patient's heart rate and reviewing the patient's hemoglobin:
Rationale: Heart rate monitoring and hemoglobin assessment are crucial in various clinical situations but are not specific indicators of neutropenia.
Appropriateness: Not directly related to assessing neutropenia.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Inform the primary care provider that the patient may have an infection:
Explanation: The presence of an elevated oral temperature and new onset of fine crackles on lung auscultation suggests a potential respiratory infection, which is a significant concern in a patient with sickle cell disease. Notifying the primary care provider allows for further evaluation and appropriate management of the infection.
B. Liaise with the respiratory therapist and consider high-flow oxygen:
Explanation: While oxygenation may be necessary, especially if the patient is experiencing respiratory distress, addressing the potential infection is the priority. Consulting with the respiratory therapist and considering high-flow oxygen can be part of the overall plan based on the primary care provider's recommendations.
C. Apply supplementary oxygen by nasal cannula:
Explanation: Providing oxygen support may be necessary, but it should be done in consultation with the primary care provider, who can guide the appropriate level of oxygen therapy based on the patient's condition.
D. Administer bronchodilators by nebulizer:
Explanation: Bronchodilators are typically used for conditions like asthma or COPD, and their use might not be the primary intervention in the context of a sickle cell crisis with signs of a potential respiratory infection. Addressing the infection takes precedence, and the primary care provider's input is essential in determining the appropriate course of action.
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