Which of the following signs is most commonly associated with respiratory alkalosis?
Muscle weakness and confusion
Decreased deep tendon reflexes and hypotension
Bradycardia and decreased respiratory rate
Rapid, shallow breathing and feelings of panic
The Correct Answer is D
A. Muscle weakness and confusion are more commonly associated with metabolic or mixed acid-base disturbances rather than respiratory alkalosis specifically.
B. Decreased deep tendon reflexes and hypotension are not typical signs of respiratory alkalosis, which usually involves changes in breathing patterns.
C. Bradycardia and decreased respiratory rate are more likely associated with respiratory acidosis or other conditions, not with respiratory alkalosis.
D. Rapid, shallow breathing, often due to anxiety or panic attacks, is characteristic of respiratory alkalosis. Patients may also report feelings of panic due to the hyperventilation that leads to this condition.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. DIC is characterized by a low platelet count due to the consumption of platelets in the coagulation process, not an elevated count.
B. While heparin may be used in the management of DIC in some cases, it is not a lifelong treatment nor a cure for the condition, as DIC results from an underlying condition rather than being a standalone disease.
C. DIC involves the overactivation of the coagulation cascade, leading to the formation of fibrin clots and subsequent consumption of clotting factors and platelets, thus making this statement accurate.
D. DIC is not a genetic disorder but rather a complication often associated with severe infections, trauma, or other conditions, and it is not primarily due to vitamin K deficiency.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an increased pH and increased HCO3 levels, which does not fit the provided values.
B. The low HCO3 of 18 mEq indicates a metabolic acidosis, as the body is unable to retain enough bicarbonate to balance the acid levels, and the pH is also low at 7.30, confirming acidosis.
C. Respiratory alkalosis would show a high pH and low PaCO2, which is not the case here.
D. Respiratory acidosis would be indicated by a high PaCO2 and a low pH, but the HCO3 level is low, indicating a metabolic issue rather than a respiratory one.