A nursing student is caring for a patient with metabolic acidosis. The student asks the registered nurse why the patient's respiratory rate is so high. What response by the nurse is best?
a. "The patient's metabolic rate is increased from being ill."
b. "The lungs are trying to rid the body of extra carbon dioxide."
c. "The patient is trying to reduce his temperature through panting."
d. "Patients who are acutely ill often have abnormal vital signs."
ANS: B
The body tries to compensate for excess carbon dioxide (seen in acidosis) by increasing the rate and depth of respirations to "blow off" the carbon dioxide.
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