Which electrolyte imbalance is most likely to cause abdominal pain, urinary retention, and confusion?

Choice A reason: This is incorrect because the adrenal gland is not involved in the thirst mechanism. The adrenal gland is responsible for producing hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and adrenaline, which regulate stress response, blood pressure, and metabolism.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect because the cerebral cortex is not involved in the thirst mechanism. The cerebral cortex is the outer layer of the brain that is responsible for higher cognitive functions such as memory, language, and reasoning.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect because the pituitary gland is not directly involved in the thirst mechanism. The pituitary gland is a small gland at the base of the brain that produces hormones that control growth, reproduction, and metabolism. However, the pituitary gland does secrete antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which is regulated by the hypothalamus and affects water balance in the body.

Choice D reason: This is correct because the hypothalamus is the location of the thirst mechanism. The hypothalamus is a part of the brain that regulates many bodily functions such as temperature, appetite, sleep, and emotions. The hypothalamus also monitors the blood osmolarity and triggers the sensation of thirst when the blood is too concentrated.

Choice A reason: Respiratory alkalosis is caused by hyperventilation, which lowers the carbon dioxide levels in the blood and raises the pH. This is not likely to occur in a client with a nasogastric tube on low suction.

Choice B reason: Metabolic acidosis is caused by an excess of acids or a loss of bases in the body, which lowers the pH. This can occur in conditions such as diabetic ketoacidosis, renal failure, or diarrhea. This is not likely to occur in a client with a nasogastric tube on low suction.

Choice C reason: Respiratory acidosis is caused by hypoventilation, which raises the carbon dioxide levels in the blood and lowers the pH. This can occur in conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, or sedative overdose. This is not likely to occur in a client with a nasogastric tube on low suction.

Choice D reason: Metabolic alkalosis is caused by a loss of acids or an excess of bases in the body, which raises the pH. This can occur in conditions such as vomiting, gastric suction, or diuretic use. This is the most likely acid-base disorder to occur in a client with a nasogastric tube on low suction, as the tube removes gastric acid from the stomach.