A client who is found unresponsive has arterial blood gases drawn, and the results indicate the following:
- pH is 7.12 (normal range: 7.35-7.45)
- PaCO2 is 90 mm Hg (normal range: 35-45)
- HCO3- is 22 mEq/L (normal range: 22-26)
The nurse interprets the results as indicating which condition?
Metabolic alkalosis
Respiratory alkalosis
Respiratory acidosis
Metabolic acidosis
The Correct Answer is C
A. Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and elevated bicarbonate levels, which is not present in these results.
B. Respiratory alkalosis would present with an increased pH and decreased PaCO2, which does not apply here.
C. The low pH (7.12) indicates acidemia, and the elevated PaCO2 (90 mm Hg) suggests hypoventilation and respiratory acidosis due to CO2 retention. The bicarbonate level is within normal limits, further supporting respiratory acidosis.
D. Metabolic acidosis would be indicated by a low pH and low bicarbonate levels; however, the bicarbonate is normal in this case, ruling out metabolic acidosis.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Washing hands is a crucial step to prevent infection and maintain hygiene before any physical assessment.
B. Providing patient privacy is essential to ensure the client's comfort and confidentiality during the assessment.
C. While it’s important to follow the provider’s orders, a routine check-up typically does not require a new healthcare order, as the nurse can perform the assessment as part of standard care.
D. Positioning the client comfortably on the examination table is necessary to facilitate the assessment and ensure the client's comfort during the procedure.
E. Explaining the procedure to the client helps to alleviate anxiety, improve understanding, and foster cooperation during the assessment.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. This would show a regular rhythm with a consistent rate (60-100 bpm) and clear P waves before each QRS complex, which is not present in asystole.
B. This indicates a slow heart rate (below 60 bpm) but would still display P waves and QRS complexes; asystole shows no electrical activity.
C. This is the correct interpretation as it represents a flatline on the ECG, indicating no electrical activity in the heart.
D. This would show a rapid heart rate (above 100 bpm) with present P waves, which is not the case in asystole.