Author Question: A client has a medical condition that often results in the development of metabolic acidosis. The ... (Read 74 times)

awywial · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A client has a medical condition that often results in the development of metabolic acidosis. The nurse should observe this client for the development of which breathing pattern as a result of this condition?

1. Cheyne-Stokes
2. Biot's
3. Cluster
4. Kussmaul's

Question 2

The client is experiencing severe shortness of breath, but is not cyanotic. What laboratory value should the nurse review in an attempt to understand this phenomenon?

1. Blood sugar
2. Hemoglobin and hematocrit
3. Cardiac enzymes
4. Serum electrolytes

ankilker · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale 1: Cheyne-Stokes respirations are commonly a result of chronic diseases, increased intracranial pressure, or drug overdose.
Rationale 2: Biot's respirations are often the result of central nervous system disorders.
Rationale 3: Cluster respirations are often the result of central nervous system disorders.
Rationale 4: Kussmaul's respirations are a type of hyperventilation that accompanies metabolic acidosis. They represent the body's attempt to compensate for the acidosis by blowing off carbon dioxide.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 2
Rationale 1: Blood sugar is not used to evaluate respiratory function.
Rationale 2: In order to exhibit cyanosis, the client's blood must contain about 5 g or more of unoxygenated hemoglobin per 100 mL of blood and the surface blood capillaries must be dilated. Severe anemia will interfere with the development of cyanosis, so the nurse should review the hemoglobin and hematocrit.
Rationale 3: Cardiac enzymes are not used to evaluate respiratory function.
Rationale 4: Serum electrolytes are not used to evaluate respiratory function.