A patient is having a severe anxiety attack. Arterial blood gas results show respiratory alkalosis. Which of the following nursing actions should the nurse take first?
a. Place the patient in high Fowler's position.
b. Have the patient rebreathe air from a paper bag.
c. Administer nasal oxygen at 6 L/min.
d. Give the patient a glass of orange juice.
ANS: B
Rebreathing from a paper bag reduces carbon dioxide loss, which increases carbonic acid in the body, correcting alkalosis. The Fowler's position will increase ventilation and could worsen alkalosis. Oxygen and orange juice will not help.
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