The nurse is aware that which of the following results when an increased concentration of hydrogen ions occurs within body fluids?
a. They become acidic.
b. They become alkaline.
c. Oxygen ions are released into the blood.
d. Carbon ions are retained.
B
The normal body pH range of blood is from 7.35 to 7.45; blood pH above or below this range can cause profound physiologic problems. A blood pH level below 7.35 means that the concentration of hydrogen ions is elevated, resulting in acidosis, which can cause coma, weak or irregular heartbeat, or severe hypotension. A blood pH above 7.45 indicates excessive loss of hydrogen ions, resulting in alkalosis, with symptoms such as apathy, irritability, delirium, or spasmodic muscle contractions.
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The nursing instructor is teaching about the emergent/resuscitative phase of burn injury. During this phase, what would the nursing instructor tell the students they should closely monitor in the laboratory values?
A) Sodium deficit B) Bleeding time C) Potassium deficit D) Decreased hematocrit
The nurse is caring for a client with renal failure whose blood gas reflects a pH of 7.21. Which of the following is correct regarding the hydrogen ion and acid?base balance?
1. As the hydrogen ion concentration increases, the pH decreases. 2. As the hydrogen ion concentration increases, the pH increases. 3. As the hydrogen ion concentration decreases, the pH decreases. 4. When present in proper concentration, the hydrogen ion maintains the normal pH of the body between 6.8 and 7.8.
A first-time mother calls the clinic to talk to the nurse. The mother is very upset, saying that her newborn's fingernails dip in the middle, appearing spoon-like. What would be the nurse's best response?
A) "Take the baby to the emergency room to be evaluated." B) "Bring your baby to the clinic immediately." C) "This may be normal in infants." D) "This is a sign of a nutritional deficiency. What are you feeding your infant?"
The laboratory results of a child with AML indicate a white blood cell count of 500 with two percent bands. Which of the following responses is appropriate?
1. Administer the Hepatitis B vaccine as ordered. 2. Prepare for hemolytic reactions. 3. Visitors can bring flowers and gifts of fruit to the child. 4. Have people wash their hands prior to contact with the child.