Competency
Describe strategies for safe, effective multidimensional nursing care for clients with acid-base imbalances.
Scenario
Tony is a 56-year-old, Hispanic male that presented to the Emergency Room with complaints of frequent, which he has been experiencing for the past four days. He states “I haven’t felt good for about a week, but couldn’t afford to miss work.” He complains of a diarrhea, lightheadedness, and feeling exhausted. Past medical history includes asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Upon physical examination, you notice that Tony is pale, drowsy, and his respiratory rate is 28 breaths per minute and deep, heart rate 125 beats per minute, blood pressure 80/40 mm Hg, and his pulse oximetry is 90% on room air. You notify the MD. He orders oxygen at 2 L via NC, a guiac stool, and an arterial blood gas.
Tony’s ABG results:
pH 7.28
PaCO2 – 32 mm Hg
PaO2 – 70 mm Hg
HCO3 – 18 mEq/L
Instructions
In a–2-page Word document:
1. Determine Tony’s acid-base imbalance
2. Describe possible causes of the imbalance
3. Identify the signs and symptoms that Tony is exhibiting as a result of the acid-base imbalance
4. List the multidimensional care strategies that are appropriate for the care of Tony