The client has been vomiting for several days. The nurse knows that the client is at risk for metabolic alkalosis because gastric secretions have which characteristic?
A) Gastric secretions are green in color.
B) Gastric secretions are alkaline.
C) Gastric secretions are acidic.
D) Gastric secretions have a foul smell.
Answer: C
Metabolic alkalosis due to loss of hydrogen ions usually occurs because of vomiting or gastric suction. Gastric secretions are highly acidic (pH 1-3). When these are lost through vomiting or gastric suction, the alkalinity of body fluids increases. This increased alkalinity results from the loss of acid and from selective retention of bicarbonate by the kidneys as chloride is depleted. Gastric secretions are now alkaline. The color and odor of gastric secretions have no influence on the development of metabolic acidosis.
You might also like to view...
The Total Care Method is a traditional model used to deliver nursing care with its primary focus on:
A. One nurse assuming total responsibility. B. Efficient use of staff. C. Delivery of care in all health-care settings. D. Five different clients' total care.
What signs and symptoms of infection do you assess for in J.S.? Select all that apply
a. Pain b. Fever c. Loss of function d. Palpitations e. Unusual drainage f. Localized edema
The nurse has determined that an 8-year-old girl is at risk for being overweight. Which of the following interventions would be a priority prior to developing the care plan?
A) Determining the need for additional caloric intake B) Asking the parents who they want to work with the child C) Interviewing the parents about their eating habits D) Discussing the influence of peers on the child's actions
Express ΒΌ as a decimal fraction
1. 0.02 2. 2.50 3. 0.25 4. 0.40