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The nurse is caring for a client with a nasogastric tube that is attached to low suction. If the client's HCO3- is 30, which additional value is most likely to be noted in this client?
- A. pH 7.52
- B. pH 7.36
- C. pH 7.25
- D. pH 7.20
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Loss of gastric fluid via nasogastric suction or vomiting causes metabolic alkalosis because of the loss of hydrochloric acid (HCl), an acid secreted in the stomach. This occurs as HCO3 rises above normal. Thus, the loss of hydrogen ions in the HCl results in alkalosis. A pH above 7.45 would be noted.
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Which arterial blood gas (ABG) values should the nurse anticipate in the client with a nasogastric tube attached to continuous suction?
- A. pH 7.25, PaCO2 55, HCO3 24
- B. pH 7.30, PaCO2 38, HCO3 20
- C. pH 7.48, PaCO2 30, HCO3 23
- D. pH 7.49, PaCO2 38, HCO3 30
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Continuous nasogastric suction can lead to metabolic alkalosis due to the loss of gastric acid (hydrochloric acid), which reduces hydrogen ions and increases bicarbonate levels. The ABG values in option 4 (pH 7.49, PaCO2 38, HCO3 30) indicate metabolic alkalosis, with an elevated pH and high bicarbonate level, consistent with this condition. Option 1 suggests respiratory acidosis, option 2 suggests metabolic acidosis, and option 3 suggests respiratory alkalosis, none of which align with the expected acid-base imbalance from nasogastric suction.
During the postoperative period, the client who underwent a pelvic exenteration reports pain in the calf area. What action should the nurse take?
- A. Ask the client to walk and observe the gait.
- B. Lightly massage the calf area to relieve the pain.
- C. Check the calf area for temperature, color, and size.
- D. Administer PRN morphine sulfate as prescribed for postoperative pain.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The nurse monitors the postoperative client for complications such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary emboli, and wound infection. Pain in the calf area could indicate a deep vein thrombosis. Change in color, temperature, or size of the client's calf could also indicate this complication. Options 1 and 2 could result in an embolus if in fact the client had a deep vein thrombosis. Administering pain medication for this client is not the appropriate nursing action since further assessment needs to take place.
The nurse is caring for a child recovering from a tonsillectomy. Which fluid or food item should be offered to the child?
- A. Green Jell-O
- B. Cold soda pop
- C. Butterscotch pudding
- D. Cool cherry-flavored Kool-Aid
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: After tonsillectomy, clear, cool liquids should be administered. Citrus, carbonated, and extremely hot or cold liquids need to be avoided because they may irritate the throat. Milk and milk products (pudding) are avoided because they coat the throat and cause the child to clear the throat, thus increasing the risk of bleeding. Red liquids need to be avoided because they give the appearance of blood if the child vomits.
When a client with a chest injury is suspected of experiencing a pleural effusion, which typical manifestations of this respiratory problem should the nurse assess for? Select all that apply.
- A. Dry cough
- B. Moist cough
- C. Dyspnea at rest
- D. Productive cough
- E. Dyspnea on exertion
- F. Nonproductive cough
Correct Answer: A,E,F
Rationale: A pleural effusion is the collection of fluid in the pleural space. Typical assessment findings in the client with a pleural effusion include dyspnea, which usually occurs with exertion, and a dry, nonproductive cough. The cough is caused by bronchial irritation and possible mediastinal shift.
The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with a herniated lumbar intervertebral disk who is experiencing low back pain. Which position should the nurse place the client in to minimize the pain?
- A. Supine with the knees slightly raised
- B. High Fowler's position with the foot of the bed flat
- C. Semi-Fowler's position with the foot of the bed flat
- D. Semi-Fowler's position with the knees slightly raised
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Clients with low back pain are often more comfortable in the semi-Fowler's position with the knees raised sufficiently to flex the knees (William's position). This relaxes the muscles of the lower back and relieves pressure on the spinal nerve root. Keeping the bed flat or lying in a supine position with the knees raised would excessively stretch the lower back. Keeping the foot of the bed flat will enhance extension of the spine.