A nurse is assessing a client who has acute pancreatitis and is at risk for an acid-base imbalance. For which manifestation of this acid-base imbalance should the nurse assess?
a. Agitation
b. Kussmaul respirations
c. Seizures
d. Positive Chvostek's sign
ANS: B
The pancreas is a major site of bicarbonate production. Pancreatitis can cause a relative metabolic acidosis through underproduction of bicarbonate ions. Manifestations of acidosis include lethargy and Kussmaul respirations. Agitation, seizures, and a positive Chvostek's sign are manifestations of the electrolyte imbalances that accompany alkalosis.
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