A client had gastric surgery 10 days ago and continues to require gastric suction because of a paralytic ileus. The client reports tingling in the fingers, has hypertonic reflexes, and has a respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute that are deep in nature. The nurse recognizes that these symptoms are consistent with which diagnosis?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms described are consistent with metabolic alkalosis, which can occur due to prolonged gastric suctioning. Gastric suction can lead to a loss of hydrochloric acid, resulting in an increase in blood pH. Tingling in the fingers (paresthesia), hypertonic reflexes, and a decreased respiratory rate (as the body tries to retain CO2 to balance the pH) are signs of metabolic alkalosis.

A Client Had Gastric Surgery 10 Days Ago and Continues