A nurse is reviewing the ABG results of a client who has COPD. The results include a pH of 7.3 (7.35 to 7.45), PaO2 56 mm Hg (80 to 100 mm Hg), PaCO2 54 mm Hg (35 to 45 mm Hg), HCO3- 26 mEq/L (21 to 28 mEq/L), and SaO2 87%. Which of the following is the correct interpretation of these values?
Compensated metabolic acidosis
Compensated respiratory acidosis
Uncompensated respiratory acidosis
Uncompensated metabolic acidosis
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Compensated metabolic acidosis would show a normal pH with a decrease in HCO3- and a decrease in PaCO2.
B. Compensated respiratory acidosis would show a normal pH with an elevated PaCO2 and a compensatory increase in HCO3-.
C. The low pH indicates acidosis, and the elevated PaCO2 suggests that it is respiratory in origin, with the HCO3- remaining normal, indicating no compensation has occurred yet.
D. Uncompensated metabolic acidosis would present with a low pH, low HCO3-, and normal PaCO2.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. This response validates the client's feelings and opens the door for further conversation without judgment, encouraging the client to express more of their thoughts.
B. While this statement acknowledges the client's feelings, it may seem dismissive or minimize the depth of the client's distress.
C. Telling the client that many people experience similar feelings can invalidate the uniqueness of their grief and may discourage them from sharing more.
D. Asking "Why" may sound accusatory and could make the client feel defensive or misunderstood.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Bradycardia is not typically associated with pulmonary edema; instead, tachycardia is more common as the body tries to compensate for decreased oxygenation.
B. Wheezing may occur in certain respiratory conditions but is not a classic finding in pulmonary edema; instead, crackles or rales are more expected due to fluid accumulation.
C. Pale, dry skin is not characteristic of pulmonary edema; the client may present with cyanosis or clammy skin due to hypoxia.
D. Pink, frothy sputum is a classic sign of pulmonary edema, indicating fluid in the alveoli and is often associated with acute heart failure.