A nurse is caring for a 5-year-old patient whose temperature is 101.2° F. The nurse expects this patient to hyperventilate. Which factor does the nurse remember when planning care for this type of hyperventilation?
A) Anxiety over illness
B) Decreased drive to breathe
C) Increased metabolic demands
D) Infection destroying lung tissues

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Increased body temperature (fever) increases the metabolic rate, thereby increasing carbon dioxide production. The increased carbon dioxide level stimulates an increase in the patient's rate and depth of respiration, causing hyperventilation. Anxiety can cause hyperventilation, but this is not the direct cause from a fever. Sleep causes a decreased respiratory drive; hyperventilation speeds up breathing. The cause of the fever in this question is unknown.

A Nurse Is Caring for a 5-Year-Old Patient Whose Temperature