LPN Fundamentals Practice Questions Related

Review LPN Fundamentals Practice Questions related questions and content

Which of the following clinical findings is expected in a patient who has undergone gastric lavage and prolonged vomiting?

  • A. Decreased serum pH
  • B. Increased serum bicarbonate level
  • C. Increased serum oxygen level
  • D. Decreased serum osmotic level
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Prolonged vomiting and gastric lavage lose stomach acid (HCl), causing metabolic alkalosis elevated pH, not decreased (acidosis). Bicarbonate rises as the body compensates, not oxygen or osmolarity, which are unrelated. Nurses monitor for alkalosis symptoms (e.g., tetany), correcting with fluids like saline, restoring acid-base balance disrupted by gastric content loss.