A nurse is reviewing the arterial blood gas (ABG) results of a client who the provider suspects has metabolic acidosis. Which of the following results should the nurse expect to see?
- A. pH below 7.35
- B. pH above 7.45
- C. HCO3- above 28 mEq/L
- D. PaCO2 above 45 mm Hg
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: pH below 7.35. In metabolic acidosis, there is a decrease in pH due to an excess of acid or a loss of bicarbonate ions. A pH below 7.35 indicates acidosis. Choices B and C are incorrect because in metabolic acidosis, the pH is below the normal range of 7.35-7.45, and the bicarbonate (HCO3-) level is typically below 24 mEq/L rather than above 28 mEq/L. Choice D is incorrect as an elevated PaCO2 (respiratory acidosis) is not typically seen in metabolic acidosis.
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A staff nurse is teaching a client who has Addison's disease about the disease process. The client asks the nurse what causes Addison's disease. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
- A. It is caused by the lack of production of aldosterone by the adrenal gland.
- B. It is caused by a viral infection.
- C. It is caused by the overproduction of cortisol.
- D. It is caused by an autoimmune disorder.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Correct Answer: A
Rationale:
1. Addison's disease is characterized by adrenal insufficiency.
2. Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal gland that helps regulate blood pressure and electrolyte balance.
3. Lack of aldosterone production in Addison's disease leads to electrolyte imbalances and low blood pressure.
4. Therefore, the correct answer is A as the lack of aldosterone production by the adrenal gland is the primary cause of Addison's disease.
Summary of other choices:
B. Addison's disease is not caused by a viral infection, so this choice is incorrect.
C. Addison's disease is not caused by the overproduction of cortisol, as it is associated with cortisol deficiency.
D. The most common cause of Addison's disease is an autoimmune disorder where the body attacks the adrenal glands, leading to their dysfunction.
A nurse is providing teaching about a heart healthy diet to a group of clients with hypertension. Which of the following statements by one of the clients indicates a need for further teaching?
- A. I may eat 10 ounces of lean protein each day
- B. I will limit my sodium intake.
- C. I will increase my intake of fruits and vegetables.
- D. I will avoid fried foods and processed meats.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: "I may eat 10 ounces of lean protein each day." This statement indicates a need for further teaching because consuming 10 ounces of lean protein daily may lead to excessive protein intake, which can strain the kidneys and potentially worsen hypertension. Clients with hypertension should limit protein intake and focus on lean sources in moderation. Choices B, C, and D are correct as they align with a heart-healthy diet by limiting sodium intake, increasing fruits and vegetables, and avoiding fried foods and processed meats, respectively.
A nurse is reviewing the EKG strip of a client who has prolonged vomiting. Which of the following abnormalities on the client's EKG should the nurse interpret as a sign of hypokalemia?
- A. Flat T wave
- B. Prominent U wave
- C. ST elevation
- D. Wide QRS complex
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Prominent U wave. Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, can cause the U wave to become more prominent on an EKG strip. This is due to delayed repolarization of the ventricles. A flat T wave (choice A) is typically associated with ischemia or infarction. ST elevation (choice C) is often seen in conditions like myocardial infarction. A wide QRS complex (choice D) is indicative of conduction abnormalities. Choices E, F, and G are not relevant to the interpretation of hypokalemia on an EKG strip.
A nurse is teaching a client who has septic shock about the development of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Which of the following statements should the nurse make?
- A. DIC is caused by abnormal coagulation involving fibrinogen.
- B. DIC is caused by increased fibrinogen levels.
- C. DIC is caused by a reduction in platelet production.
- D. DIC is caused by a decrease in clotting factors.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because DIC is characterized by abnormal coagulation involving fibrinogen. In septic shock, the body's response triggers widespread activation of the coagulation system, leading to the consumption of clotting factors like fibrinogen. This results in the formation of microclots throughout the body, leading to organ dysfunction. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as DIC is not caused by increased fibrinogen levels, a reduction in platelet production, or a decrease in clotting factors. It is essential for the nurse to emphasize the role of abnormal coagulation involving fibrinogen in DIC to help the client understand the pathology and potential complications associated with septic shock.
A nurse is preparing a client for a radiation treatment who is postoperative following a mastectomy. The nurse should inform the client to expect which of the following adverse effects from the treatment?
- A. Hair loss
- B. Nausea and vomiting
- C. Fatigue
- D. Skin irritation
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Fatigue. Radiation treatment can cause fatigue as it affects healthy cells in addition to cancer cells, leading to increased tiredness. Hair loss (A) is more commonly associated with chemotherapy, while nausea and vomiting (B) are typical side effects of chemotherapy or certain medications. Skin irritation (D) is a common side effect of radiation treatment, but fatigue is the primary adverse effect in this scenario due to its impact on overall energy levels.