Which blood gas result will the nurse expect to observe in a patient with respiratory alkalosis?
pH 7.53, PaCO2 30 mm Hg, HCO3-24 mEq/L
pH 7.35, PaCO2 35 mm Hg. HCO3-26 mEq/L
pH 7.25, PaCO2 48 mm Hg. HCO3-23 mEq/L
pH 7.60, PaCO2 40 mm Hg, HCO3-30 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is A
A. pH: Elevated (above 7.45), indicating alkalosis. PaCO₂: Decreased (below 35 mm Hg), reflecting hyperventilation and CO₂ loss. HCO₃⁻: Usually normal (around 24 mEq/L) or slightly decreased, as metabolic compensation might not be immediate. The results here show an elevated pH, decreased PaCO₂, and normal HCO₃⁻, which are consistent with respiratory alkalosis.
B. pH: Decreased (acidic), indicating acidosis. PaCO₂: Slightly elevated (near normal), not indicative of respiratory alkalosis. HCO₃⁻: Normal (around 26 mEq/L), suggesting no significant metabolic component or compensation. This profile does not match respiratory alkalosis; it is more consistent with a mixed or different type of acid-base imbalance.
C. pH: Decreased (acidic), indicating acidosis. PaCO₂: Elevated (above 45 mm Hg), indicating CO₂ retention, which is characteristic of respiratory acidosis, not alkalosis. HCO₃⁻: Normal (around 23 mEq/L), showing no significant metabolic compensation or disturbance. This profile indicates respiratory acidosis rather than respiratory alkalosis.
D. pH: Elevated (alkaline), which is consistent with alkalosis. PaCO₂: Normal (around 40 mm Hg), indicating that CO₂ levels are not the primary cause of the alkalosis. HCO₃⁻: Elevated (above 28 mEq/L), suggesting a metabolic alkalosis or compensation for a respiratory acidosis, but not respiratory alkalosis alone.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
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.
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.
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