MDC II Exam 2

MDC II Exam 2
look at pH
What is your first step when interpreting ABGs?




Respiratory acidosis
What acid-base imbalance would you expect to see in an asthmatic patient?


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COPD
asthma
muscle weakness
▪ inadequate chest expansion
▪ pneumonia
▪ pulmonary edema
▪ sleep apnea
▪ respiratory depression r/t: drugs, alcohol, anesthesia, electrolyte imbalance
▪ high ICP
Common causes of Respiratory Acidosis

, Vital Signs, think LOW & SLOW
▪ bradycardia, thready weak pulses
▪ hypotension
▪ hypoxia

Electrolyte Imbalance
▪ hyperkalemia

Skin
▪ pale, cyanotic

CNS Depression, think LOW & SLOW
▪ lethargy
▪ confusion
▪ stupor
▪ coma
▪ headache

Musculoskeletal, think LOW & SLOW
▪ hyporeflexia
▪ muscle weakness
▪ flaccid paralysis

Cardiac
▪ heart dysrhythmias (due to hyperkalemia)
▪ increased cardiac output
▪ EKG changes - tall T waves, wide QRS, prolonged PR interval
S/S of Respiratory Acidosis
(acidosis has similar s/s no matter if met. or resp.)




stabilize airway (patent)
bronchodilators
▪ O2
▪ Pulmonary hygiene (positioning and breathing/coughing techniques)
▪ Suction PRN
▪ If on ventilation, increase ventilation rate.
▪ Endotracheal intubation