Arterial blood gas levels are obtained for the client. If the client’s results are pH 7.48, CO2 42
mm Hg, and HCO3 32 mEq/L, the client is exhibiting
... [Show More] which one of the following acid-base
imbalances?
Selected Answer: D.
Metabolic alkalosis
Correct Answer: D.
Metabolic alkalosis
Response
Feedback:
The client’s pH is elevated at 7.48 (normal 7.35 to 7.45), the CO2 is normal at
42 mm Hg (normal 35 to 45 mm Hg), and the bicarbonate is elevated at 32
mEq/L (normal 22 to 26 mEq/L). The client is experiencing metabolic
alkalosis. In metabolic acidosis the client’s pH would be below 7.35, and the
bicarbonate would be below 22 mEq/L. In respiratory acidosis the client’s pH
would be below 7.35, and the CO2 would be elevated above 45 mm Hg. In
respiratory alkalosis the client’s pH would be above 7.45, and the CO2 would
be below 35 mm Hg.Cognitive Level: analysisNCLEX Blueprint: Physiological
Adaptation
Question 2
The nurse would suspect that a client who frequently uses which medication is at risk for
developing metabolic alkalosis?
Selected Answer: A.
Calcium carbonate (Tums)
Correct Answer: A.
Calcium carbonate (Tums)
Response
Feedback:
Excessive use of oral antacids can lead to metabolic alkalosis. Use of
ibuprofen and Tylenol is not associated with the development of metabolic
alkalosis. Overdoses of aspirin can be associated with the development of
respiratory alkalosis, and eventually can lead to metabolic acidosis.
Cognitive Level: ApplicationNCLEX Blueprint: Physiological Adaptation
Question 3
The nurse records a patient’s hourly urine output from an indwelling catheter as
follows:0700: 36 mL0800: 45 mL0900: 85 mL1000: 62 mL1100: 50 mL1200: 48 mL1300:
94 mL1400: 78 mL1500: 60 mLThe nurse can conclude that the patient’s urine output should
be described as which of the following?
Selected Answer: B.
Within normal limits
Correct Answer: B.
Within normal limits
Response
Feedback:
Urine accounts for the greatest amount of fluid loss. Normal urine output for
an average-sized adult is approximately 1,500 mL in 24 hr. Urine output
varies according to intake and activity but should remain at least 30 to 50
mL per hour. The patient’s urine output is within the normal range. This
patient has an indwelling catheter, which will result in continual flow of
urine.Cognitive level: analysisNCLEX Blueprint: basic care and comfort
Question 4
A client is admitted with severe diarrhea. Arterial blood gas (ABG) results are pH 7.33;
PaCO 2 42; HCO 3 – 20. The nurse concludes this client has which acid–base imbalance?
Selected Answer: A.
Uncompensated metabolic acidosis
Correct Answer: A.
Uncompensated metabolic acidosis
Response
Feedback:
The pH and HCO3– are decreased, indicating metabolic acidosis. The
PaCO2 is normal, indicating that compensatory mechanisms ha................................................continued [Show Less]