A 60-year-old male patient is admitted to the medical unit with a bowel obstruction causing him to vomit frequently
What is the correct interpretation of the most recent arterial blood gas values for this patient: pH = 7.51; PaCO2 = 43 mm Hg; and HCO3– = 34 mEq/L?
a. Respiratory acidosis c. Respiratory alkalo-sis
b. Metabolic acidosis d. Metabolic alkalosis
ANS: D
The increased pH indicates alkalosis, and the HCO3– is increased, reflecting a primary metabolic problem most likely caused by the patient's vomiting.
You might also like to view...
Which of the following statements about warfarin (Coumadin) is NOT true?
A) It actively breaks down the fibrin network, thereby dissolving formed thrombi. B) It helps treat chronic atrial fibrillation. C) It prevents coagulation by antagonizing the effects of vitamin K. D) It was originally used as rat poison.
During volume-targeted ventilation, which of the following setting(s) determine(s) the total cycle time? 1. Volume 2. Flow 3. Rate
a. 1 and 2 only b. 2 and 3 only c. 3 only d. 1, 2, and 3
After receiving a package, the medical assistant should never open and check the contents to determine that nothing is missing or broken
Indicate whether the statement is true or false
When cleaning up a biohazard spill,
a. wear personal protective equipment. b. care for any patients first, then care for equipment. c. use a spill kit to contain the materials, then sanitize with a germicidal chemical. d. All of the above