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Chapter 21: Problem 14

The client is admitted with a pH of \(7.48\), a \(\mathrm{HCO}_3\) level of \(34 \mathrm{mEq} / \mathrm{L}\), and a \(\mathrm{CO}_2\) level of \(48 \mathrm{mEq} / \mathrm{L}\). The nurse is aware that these laboratory values reveal: A. Metabolic acidosis B. Metabolic alkalosis C. Respiratory alkalosis D. Respiratory acidosis

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: Metabolic alkalosis

Step by step solution

01

Understand the normal ranges

First, we need to know the normal ranges for these three blood gas values, which are as follows: pH: 7.35 - 7.45 HCO3 (bicarbonate): 22 - 26 mEq/L CO2: 35 - 45 mEq/L
02

Analyze the given values

Now we should compare the client's values to the normal ranges: pH: 7.48 (alkalosis) HCO3 level: 34 mEq/L (alkalosis) CO2 level: 48 mEq/L (acidosis) From this information, we can rule out respiratory alkalosis because the CO2 level is in the acidosis range.
03

Identify primary cause

To identify the primary cause of the client's imbalance, we need to determine if it's metabolic or respiratory in nature. Metabolic and respiratory imbalances are determined by the relationship between HCO3 and CO2. Here, the client has elevated HCO3 and elevated CO2 levels. Since HCO3 (bicarbonate) is a part of the metabolic processes, an increase in HCO3 suggests a metabolic issue. Elevated CO2 suggests a compensatory mechanism in place to combat the metabolic issue.
04

Make the diagnosis

Based on the information provided and our analysis, the client is experiencing: B. Metabolic alkalosis The elevated pH and bicarbonate levels indicate a metabolic issue, and the increased CO2 level indicates the body's attempt to compensate for the alkalosis by retaining more CO2 which is an acidic substance.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

The client with head trauma is admitted following a motor vehicle accident. The nurse notes \(5000 \mathrm{ml}\) of dilute urinary output within 3 hours of admission. Which finding would support a diagnosis of diabetes insipidus? A. Decreased red blood cell count B. Low specific gravity of urine C. Increase blood urea nitrogen D. Increased serum creatinine level

The client is admitted with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The client's laboratory values reveal a \(\mathrm{CO}_2\) level of \(49 \mathrm{mEq} / \mathrm{L}\). The \(\mathrm{HCO}_3\) level is \(26 \mathrm{mEq} / \mathrm{L}\), and the \(\mathrm{pH}\) is \(7.32\). The nurse is aware that these laboratory values reveal: A. Metabolic acidosis B. Metabolic alkalosis C. Respiratory alkalosis D. Respiratory acidosis

The client is admitted with isotonic dehydration. The nurse would anticipate an order for which IV fluid? A. \(5 \%\) dextrose and water B. \(3 \%\) sodium chloride C. \(.9 \%\) sodium chloride D. \(.45 \%\) sodium chloride

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