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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition characterized by non-cancerous growth of the prostate gland, leading to its enlargement. This enlargement can contribute to urinary retention by obstructing the flow of urine through the urethra. Here's the breakdown of the explanation:
A) Abnormal growth results in loss of bladder muscle tone:
While BPH can lead to urinary symptoms such as urinary frequency, urgency, and nocturia, it does not directly cause loss of bladder muscle tone. Instead, the enlarged prostate gland obstructs the bladder outlet, making it difficult for urine to pass through the urethra.
B) Inflammation causes spasms of the gland:
Inflammation of the prostate gland, known as prostatitis, can cause symptoms such as pelvic pain, dysuria, and urinary frequency, but it is not typically associated with BPH. BPH is characterized by benign growth of the prostate tissue rather than inflammation and spasms.
C) The enlarged gland compresses the urethra:
Correct. The primary mechanism by which BPH causes urinary retention is by compressing the urethra, which obstructs the flow of urine from the bladder. As the prostate gland enlarges, it can constrict the urethra, leading to symptoms such as hesitancy, weak urinary stream, incomplete emptying, and urinary retention.
D) Nerve compression decreases the sensation that the bladder is full:
While compression of nerves in the pelvic region can contribute to urinary symptoms, such as decreased sensation of bladder fullness, it is not the primary mechanism by which BPH causes urinary retention. The compression of the urethra by the enlarged prostate gland is the main factor leading to urinary obstruction and retention.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Gastric carcinoma:
Helicobacter pylori infection is a known risk factor for the development of gastric carcinoma, or stomach cancer. Long-term follow-up is essential for clients treated for gastric ulcers caused by H. pylori infection to monitor for any signs or symptoms of gastric malignancy, such as persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, dysphagia, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Regular surveillance with endoscopic examinations may be recommended to detect any precancerous or cancerous changes in the gastric mucosa.
B. Hypokalemia:
Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, is not directly associated with gastric ulcers caused by H. pylori infection. While certain medications used in the treatment of gastric ulcers, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2-receptor antagonists, may increase the risk of hypokalemia, it is not a long-term complication specifically related to H. pylori infection.
C. Kidney stones:
Kidney stones, or nephrolithiasis, are not directly associated with gastric ulcers caused by H. pylori infection. Kidney stones typically form in the kidneys and urinary tract due to factors such as dehydration, dietary factors, or metabolic disorders. While certain conditions, such as chronic kidney disease, may be associated with gastric ulcers, kidney stones are not a typical long-term complication.
D. Celiac disease:
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder characterized by an abnormal immune response to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It is not directly associated with gastric ulcers caused by H. pylori infection. Celiac disease primarily affects the small intestine, leading to inflammation and damage to the intestinal lining in response to gluten ingestion. While individuals with celiac disease may experience gastrointestinal symptoms, they are not at increased risk for gastric ulcers specifically related to H. pylori infection.
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