Answer :
The nurse's concern regarding the client on the mechanical ventilator is related to Respiratory Alkalosis due to excessive CO₂ elimination at a high respiratory rate. The correct option is c. Acid excess (CO₂): Acidosis.
Mechanical ventilation assists patients in breathing, but it can also disrupt the body's natural acid-base balance, particularly in terms of carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels. The respiratory rate directly affects CO₂ elimination. In this scenario, the prescribed respiratory rate of 28 breaths per minute may result in excessive removal of CO₂ from the bloodstream, leading to respiratory alkalosis.
Respiratory alkalosis occurs when there is a decrease in CO₂ levels, causing the blood pH to rise above the normal range of 7.35-7.45. This shift towards alkalinity can have several adverse effects on the body, including cerebral vasoconstriction, which may lead to symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, and even seizures.
Therefore, the nurse's concern about respiratory alkalosis is valid. The increased respiratory rate can lead to excessive elimination of CO₂, contributing to acid excess and ultimately respiratory acidosis. This acid-base imbalance can have serious implications for the patient's health and requires careful monitoring and potentially adjustment of the ventilator settings to ensure appropriate CO₂ elimination and maintain acid-base balance. The correct option is c. Acid excess (CO₂): Acidosis.
