The nurse is caring for a patient with bulimia.The patient vomits after eating and is experiencing tingling of the fingers and toes and muscle cramps.What is the patient's expected acid-base status?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Metabolic alkalosis results from acid loss from the body or an increase in levels of bicarbonate.The most common causes are vomiting and gastric suction.Respiratory acidosis results from respiratory diseases or other conditions that reduce alveolar ventilation (hypoventilation),preventing excretion of the carbonic acid continuously produced by cells.Metabolic acidosis results from conditions that increase metabolic acids in the body or decrease the amount of base (bicarbonate).Diabetic ketoacidosis is a common cause of metabolic acidosis.Hyperventilation produces respiratory alkalosis,which causes cerebrospinal fluid and brain cells to become alkalotic,decreasing the level of consciousness.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient with Bulimia