The nurse reviews the arterial blood gas results of a client and notes the following:
pH 7.45, [normal range: 7.35-7.45]
Paco2 of 30 mm Hg (30 mmol/L), [normal range: 35-45]
HCO3- of 20 mEq/L (20 mmol/L), [normal range: 22-26]
Which condition would the nurse analyze these results to indicate?
Metabolic alkalosis
Metabolic acidosis
Respiratory alkalosis
Respiratory acidosis
The Correct Answer is C
A. Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and a high HCO3- level; this does not match the provided values.
B. Metabolic acidosis would show a low pH and a low HCO3-, which does not match the findings.
C. The pH is high (7.45) while the Paco2 is low (30 mm Hg), indicating respiratory alkalosis. The low HCO3- could be a compensatory mechanism but does not change the primary interpretation of respiratory alkalosis.
D. Respiratory acidosis would be indicated by a low pH and a high Paco2, which is not the case here.
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Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Pale yellow urine is typically associated with good hydration; dehydration would likely result in darker urine.
B. Poor skin turgor is a classic sign of dehydration, indicating a lack of adequate fluid in the tissues.
C. Hypotension (low blood pressure) can occur with dehydration due to decreased blood volume.
D. Flat neck veins may indicate a decrease in venous return due to low blood volume associated with dehydration.
E. Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is not typically a finding associated with dehydration; instead, dehydration often leads to tachycardia (increased heart rate) as the body attempts to compensate for low blood volume.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The carotid pulse should not be assessed bilaterally at the same time, as simultaneous palpation can lead to a decrease in heart rate or cause syncope due to stimulation of the carotid sinus.
B. The radial pulse can be assessed bilaterally without risk.
C. The brachial pulse can also be assessed bilaterally without concern.
D. The femoral pulse is typically assessed one side at a time, but there is no risk in palpating both femoral arteries simultaneously as there is with the carotid.