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 D
Explanation
A. Furosemide is a diuretic and is not indicated in the acute management of anaphylaxis.
B. Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid that may be used later to reduce inflammation but is not the first-line treatment in anaphylaxis.
C. Dobutamine is a medication used to treat heart failure and shock but does not address the acute allergic reaction.
D. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylactic shock, as it acts quickly to reverse severe allergic reactions by causing vasoconstriction, bronchodilation, and inhibiting further release of mediators from mast cells.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and low PaCO2, which is not evident in this scenario where the pH is low and PaCO2 is elevated.
B. The low pH of 7.3 indicates acidemia, and the elevated PaCO2 of 50 mm Hg suggests respiratory acidosis, where the body is retaining carbon dioxide, leading to an increase in acidity.
C. Metabolic acidosis would present with a low pH and a normal or decreased PaCO2, which is not the case here since the PaCO2 is elevated.
D. Metabolic alkalosis would show a high pH and elevated HCO3 levels, which is not consistent with the given ABG results.