Assingments % - Acid-Base Imbalance

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 shortness of breath, which he has been experiencing for the past two days. He states “I haven’t felt good for about a week, but couldn’t afford to miss work.” He complains of a cough, fever, and feeling exhausted. Past medical history includes asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and diabetes. Upon physical examination, you notice that Tony is struggling to breathe, his respiratory rate is 36 breaths per minute and labored, heart rate 115 beats per minute, blood pressure 90/40 mm Hg, and his pulse oximetry is 84% on room air. You notify the MD. He orders oxygen at 2 L via NC and an arterial blood gas.

Tony’s ABG results:

pH 7.28

PaCO2 – 55 mm Hg

PaO2 – 70 mm Hg

HCO3 – 30 mEq/L

Instructions

In a 1-2 page Word document:

Determine Tony’s acid-base imbalance
Describe possible causes of the imbalance
Identify the signs and symptoms that Tony is exhibiting as a result of the acid-base imbalance
List the multidimensional care strategies that are appropriate for the care of Tony

Resources

For assistance with citations, refer to the APA Guide.

For assistance with research, refer to the Nursing Research Guide.

Submit your completed assignment by following the directions below. Please check the Course Calendar for specific due dates.

Save your assignment as a Microsoft Word document. (Mac users, please remember to append the \”.docx\” extension to the filename.) The name of the file should be your first initial and last name, followed by an underscore and the name of the assignment, and an underscore and the date. An example is shown below:

Jstudent_exampleproblem_101504

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

Step 1: Determine Tony’s Acid-Base Imbalance

Review the ABG results:
- pH: 7.28 (indicates acidosis)
- PaCO2: 55 mm Hg (elevated, indicating respiratory cause)
- HCO3: 30 mEq/L (elevated, reflecting compensation)
Diagnosis: Tony is experiencing respiratory acidosis with partial compensation.
State your findings clearly in the first paragraph of your document.

Step 2: Describe Possible Causes of the Imbalance

Highlight potential causes based on Tony’s history:
- Asthma or COPD exacerbation causing ineffective gas exchange.
- Infection (indicated by fever and cough) leading to increased oxygen demand and CO2 retention.
Provide a concise explanation of how these conditions impact acid-base balance.

Step 3: Identify Tony’s Signs and Symptoms

Include symptoms associated with respiratory acidosis:
- Respiratory: Labored breathing, increased respiratory rate.
- Cardiovascular: Low blood pressure, tachycardia.
- Neurological: Fatigue, confusion (potential).
Relate these symptoms to the pathophysiology of CO2 retention.

Step 4: List Multidimensional Care Strategies

Immediate interventions:
- Administer oxygen at 2 L via nasal cannula as ordered.
- Monitor ABG values for improvements or worsening.
- Position Tony in a high-Fowler’s position to improve lung expansion.
Long-term management:
- Administer bronchodilators and corticosteroids as prescribed.
- Monitor blood glucose levels due to diabetes.
- Educate Tony on managing COPD and asthma triggers.
Collaborative strategies:
- Involve respiratory therapists to optimize ventilation.
- Consult with the dietitian for nutritional support.
Psychosocial support:
- Address barriers to healthcare (e.g., financial concerns).
- Provide emotional support to alleviate anxiety about his condition.

Step 5: Format Your Document

Title: Include an APA-style title page.
Body: Use headings for each section (e.g., “Acid-Base Imbalance,” “Possible Causes”).
Citations: Reference the course materials and resources provided using APA format.
Conclusion: Summarize key findings and reinforce care strategies.

Step 6: Save and Submit

Save your file as:
Tlastname_acidbase_012525.docx
Submit per course instructions.

With this guide, you’re equipped to write a thorough, well-structured paper for Tony’s care plan