ATI Fluid Electrolyte and Acid-Base Regulation Related

Review ATI Fluid Electrolyte and Acid-Base Regulation related questions and content

. A medical nurse educator is reviewing a patients recent episode of metabolic acidosis with members of the
nursing staff. What should the educator describe about the role of the kidneys in metabolic acidosis?

  • A. The kidneys retain hydrogen ions and excrete bicarbonate ions to help restore balance.
  • B. The kidneys excrete hydrogen ions and conserve bicarbonate ions to help restore balance
  • C. The kidneys react rapidly to compensate for imbalances in the body
  • D. The kidneys regulate the bicarbonate level in the intracellular fluid.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Correct Answer: B - The kidneys excrete hydrogen ions and conserve bicarbonate ions to help restore balance.

Rationale:
1. In metabolic acidosis, the blood pH is low due to excess acid in the body.
2. To restore pH balance, the kidneys excrete hydrogen ions (acid) and conserve bicarbonate ions (a base).
3. By excreting acid and retaining base, the kidneys help neutralize the excess acid in the body.
4. Option B accurately describes the role of the kidneys in metabolic acidosis.

Incorrect Choices:
A: Incorrect. The kidneys do not retain hydrogen ions in metabolic acidosis; they excrete them.
C: Incorrect. While the kidneys do play a role in correcting imbalances, they do not react rapidly in metabolic acidosis.
D: Incorrect. The kidneys do regulate bicarbonate levels, but this is not the primary action in metabolic acidosis.