A client has a nasogastric (NG) tube placed during abdominal surgery. During postoperative convalescence, which arterial blood gas values are consistent with metabolic alkalosis?
pH 7.49, PCO₂ 45 mm Hg, HCO₃ 32 mEq/L (32 mmol/L), PO₂ 90 mm Hg.
pH 7.30, PCO₂ 20 mm Hg, HCO₃ 22 mEq/L (22 mmol/L), PO₂ 85 mm Hg.
pH 7.46, PCO₂ 55 mm Hg, HCO₃ 36 mEq/L (36 mmol/L), PO₂ 95 mm Hg.
pH 7.29, PCO₂ 35 mm Hg, HCO₃ 25 mEq/L (25 mmol/L), PO₂ 99 mm Hg.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
pH 7.49, PCO₂ 45 mm Hg, HCO₃ 32 mEq/L (32 mmol/L), PO₂ 90 mm Hg indicates metabolic alkalosis. The elevated pH and HCO₃ levels are consistent with this condition.
Choice B rationale
pH 7.30, PCO₂ 20 mm Hg, HCO₃ 22 mEq/L (22 mmol/L), PO₂ 85 mm Hg indicates metabolic acidosis with respiratory compensation, not metabolic alkalosis.
Choice C rationale
pH 7.46, PCO₂ 55 mm Hg, HCO₃ 36 mEq/L (36 mmol/L), PO₂ 95 mm Hg indicates metabolic alkalosis with respiratory compensation. However, the pH is slightly lower than in Choice A, making Choice A more indicative of metabolic alkalosis.
Choice D rationale
pH 7.29, PCO₂ 35 mm Hg, HCO₃ 25 mEq/L (25 mmol/L), PO₂ 99 mm Hg indicates metabolic acidosis, not metabolic alkalosis.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Palpating large joints for nodules is not the most effective technique for assessing early signs of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Nodules typically appear in more advanced stages of RA and are not an early sign.
Choice B rationale
Observing the skin for lesions is not specific to RA. While skin lesions can be associated with other conditions, they are not a primary indicator of early RA1.
Choice C rationale
Observing the client’s fingers is crucial for detecting early signs of RA. Early RA often presents with swelling, tenderness, and stiffness in the small joints of the fingers.
Choice D rationale
Palpating the lymph nodes is not relevant for early RA assessment. Lymph node enlargement is not a typical early sign of RA1.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Flatulence is not a specific indicator of a serious complication related to a gallstone lodged in the common bile duct.
Choice B rationale
Amber urine is normal and does not indicate a serious complication.
Choice C rationale
Belching is not a specific indicator of a serious complication related to a gallstone lodged in the common bile duct.
Choice D rationale
Yellow sclera indicates jaundice, which is a sign of bile duct obstruction and requires immediate medical attention.