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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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The right upper quadrant is typically associated with gallbladder or liver issues, not duodenal ulcers.
B. The right lower quadrant is primarily associated with appendicitis or other conditions involving the appendix.
C. The left upper quadrant is where the duodenum is located, making it the appropriate area to assess for pain related to a duodenal ulcer.
D. The left lower quadrant is often associated with conditions affecting the sigmoid colon or left ovary but not typically with duodenal ulcers.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Providing a safe and comfortable environment and applying critical thinking involves both objective and subjective data collection, not just one type.
B. While family members can contribute to patient care, the professional responsibilities of providing a safe environment and critical thinking in assessments fall to trained healthcare providers.
C. This process encompasses both subjective and objective data, as critical thinking requires integrating multiple types of information.
D. The actions described are essential professional responsibilities of trained healthcare providers, who must ensure a safe environment, apply critical thinking, and identify patient cues effectively.