Two days after admission for an exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), an older client's arterial blood gas (ABC) indicate an acid base imbalance. The client's laboratory results reveal a low hemoglobin level, an elevated creatinine clearance, and decreased urine specific gravity. Which is the most likely cause for the acid base imbalance?
Myocardial infarction one year ago.
Occasional use of antacids.
Chronic renal insufficiency.
Shortness of breath with exertion.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Myocardial infarction one year ago:
A myocardial infarction (MI) that occurred one year ago is not directly related to the current acid-base imbalance described in the scenario. While a history of MI may have implications for the client's overall cardiovascular health and management, it is not the most likely cause of the acid-base imbalance indicated by the laboratory results.
B. Occasional use of antacids:
Occasional use of antacids is unlikely to cause the acid-base imbalance described in the scenario. Antacids primarily work by neutralizing gastric acid and are not typically associated with significant alterations in acid-base status, especially when used intermittently.
C. Chronic renal insufficiency:
Chronic renal insufficiency is the most likely cause of the acid-base imbalance indicated by the laboratory results. A low hemoglobin level suggests anemia, which can occur in chronic kidney disease due to decreased erythropoietin production. An elevated creatinine clearance indicates impaired kidney function, as the kidneys are clearing creatinine at a faster rate than normal. Decreased urine specific gravity suggests the kidneys' inability to concentrate urine properly, which is a common finding in renal insufficiency. Renal insufficiency can lead to metabolic acidosis due to the kidneys' decreased ability to excrete acid and regulate bicarbonate levels.
D. Shortness of breath with exertion:
Shortness of breath with exertion, a symptom commonly seen in COPD exacerbations, is unlikely to directly cause the acid-base imbalance described in the scenario. While respiratory distress can lead to respiratory acidosis, which is characterized by elevated carbon dioxide levels and decreased pH, the laboratory results indicate metabolic rather than respiratory acidosis.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The ABG results indicate respiratory acidosis (pH 7.0, PaCO2 66 mmHg) with compensatory metabolic alkalosis (HCO3- 24 mEq/L). The low PaO2 (60 mmHg) suggests hypoxemia.
pH 7.0: The pH is below the normal range (7.35 to 7.45), indicating acidosis.
PaCO2 66 mmHg: The PaCO2 is elevated above the normal range (35 to 45 mmHg), indicating respiratory acidosis.
HCO3- 24 mEq/L: The bicarbonate level is within the normal range (21 to 28 mEq/L), indicating compensatory metabolic alkalosis.
PaO2 60 mmHg: The PaO2 is decreased below the normal range (80 to 100 mmHg), indicating hypoxemia.
These findings suggest that the client is experiencing respiratory failure, which is characterized by inadequate gas exchange resulting in hypoxemia and hypercapnia. In this case, the massive pulmonary embolus is causing ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) mismatch, leading to impaired gas exchange and respiratory compromise. Tachycardia, hypotension, and audible bilateral pulmonary crackles further support the diagnosis of respiratory failure in the context of a massive pulmonary embolus.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Smoking is a well-established risk factor for lung cancer, and the pathophysiological process underlying this association involves the exposure of the lungs to carcinogenic agents present in tobacco smoke. Here's why option C is the correct choice:
A) Vasoconstrictive properties of nicotine reduce oxygenation and stimulate metabolism:
While nicotine is a primary addictive component of tobacco smoke and can lead to vasoconstriction, reduced oxygenation, and increased metabolism, these effects primarily contribute to cardiovascular diseases associated with smoking, such as coronary artery disease and stroke, rather than the development of lung cancer.
B) Drug addiction changes the neurochemical messages in the brain causing cravings:
This statement addresses the addictive nature of nicotine and its impact on neurochemistry, leading to cravings and dependence. While addiction is a significant aspect of tobacco use, it does not directly explain the pathophysiological process by which smoking causes lung cancer.
C) Carcinogenic agents in tobacco alter cellular cytology, morphology, and function of the lung:
Correct. Tobacco smoke contains numerous carcinogenic compounds, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), nitrosamines, and benzene, which can directly damage the DNA of lung cells. This DNA damage can lead to mutations and alterations in cellular cytology, morphology, and function, ultimately contributing to the development of lung cancer.
D) Risk for comorbidities increase incidence of chronic diseases and decrease longevity:
While smoking is associated with an increased risk of various comorbidities and chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, and certain cancers, this option does not specifically address the pathophysiological process of lung cancer development.
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