An older adult patient who is malnourished presents to the ...

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An older adult patient who is malnourished presents to the emergency department with a serum protein level of 5.2 g/dL. The nurse would expect which clinical manifestation?
 
  a. Pallor
  b. Edema
  c. Confusion
  d. Restlessness

Question 2

A patient who is lethargic and exhibits deep, rapid respirations has the following arterial blood gas (ABG) results: pH 7.32, PaO2 88 mm Hg, PaCO2 37 mm Hg, and HCO3 16 mEq/L. How should the nurse interpret these results?
 
  a. Metabolic acidosis
  b. Metabolic alkalosis
  c. Respiratory acidosis
  d. Respiratory alkalosis

[iceage]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
The normal range for total protein is 6.4 to 8.3 g/dL. Low serum protein levels cause a decrease in plasma oncotic pressure and allow fluid to remain in interstitial tissues, causing edema. Confusion, restlessness, and pallor are not associated with low serum protein levels.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
The pH and HCO3 indicate that the patient has a metabolic acidosis. The ABGs are inconsistent with the other responses.

[bucstennis@aim.com]

Excellent

[Zebsrer]

Gracias!