A nurse evaluates a client's arterial blood gas values (ABGs): pH ...

[EY67]

A nurse evaluates a client's arterial blood gas values (ABGs): pH 7.30, PaO2 86 mm Hg, PaCO2 55 mm Hg, and HCO3- 22 mEq/L. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?
 
  a. Assess the airway.
  b. Administer prescribed bronchodilators.
  c. Provide oxygen.
  d. Administer prescribed mucolytics.

Question 2

After providing discharge teaching, a nurse assesses the client's understanding regarding increased risk for metabolic alkalosis. Which statement indicates the client needs additional teaching?
 
  a. I don't drink milk because it gives me gas and diarrhea.
  b. I have been taking digoxin every day for the last 15 years.
  c. I take sodium bicarbonate after every meal to prevent heartburn.
  d. In hot weather, I sweat so much that I drink six glasses of water each day.

[mochi09]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
All interventions are important for clients with respiratory acidosis; this is indicated by the ABGs. However, the priority is assessing and maintaining an airway. Without a patent airway, other interventions will not be helpful.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Excessive oral ingestion of sodium bicarbonate and other bicarbonate-based antacids can cause metabolic alkalosis. Avoiding milk, taking digoxin, and sweating would not lead to increased risk of metabolic alkalosis.

[EY67]

Correct answers!

[mochi09]

Great! Please up vote