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
Explanation
A. To determine the heart rate from a rhythm strip, you can count the number of R-R intervals in a set time frame (typically 6 seconds) and multiply by 10 to convert to beats per minute. If the rhythm is regular, you can also use the 300 method by dividing 300 by the number of large squares between R waves. In this case, the rate is calculated to be 90 beats per minute.
B. A heart rate of 110 beats per minute would be classified as tachycardia and is not supported by the observed intervals.
C. A heart rate of 73 beats per minute would be a normal resting heart rate but does not match the calculation from the rhythm strip.
D. A heart rate of 50 beats per minute would indicate bradycardia, which is not reflected in this rhythm strip.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Nodules, specifically rheumatoid nodules, can occur in RA, but they are not typically an early manifestation.
B. Fremitus is related to lung assessment and is not a manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis.
C. Tenderness in the soles of the feet is not a classic early manifestation of RA.
D. Joint swelling is one of the hallmark early signs of rheumatoid arthritis due to inflammation of the synovial membranes.