A patient has prolonged vomiting, weakness and a low serum chloride level. Which finding is most consistent with this chloride disturbance?
Correct answer: A. Metabolic alkalosis caused by gastric acid loss
- A. Metabolic alkalosis caused by gastric acid loss
- B. Metabolic acidosis caused by bicarbonate loss
- C. Respiratory acidosis caused by slow breathing
- D. Respiratory alkalosis caused by rapid breathing
Explanation
Gastric secretions contain hydrochloric acid, so prolonged vomiting can cause chloride loss with metabolic alkalosis. The nurse should monitor fluid balance, electrolytes and the cause of vomiting, then administer prescribed replacement. Bicarbonate loss from diarrhoea more commonly causes metabolic acidosis.
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About Nutrition, Fluids and Electrolytes
Coverage includes nutrients and balanced diets, therapeutic feeding, enteral and parenteral nutrition, intake and output, dehydration, fluid overload and fluid balance calculations. Questions also examine sodium, potassium, calcium and chloride disturbances, their signs and nursing care, while distinguishing enteral feeding through the gastrointestinal tract from parenteral nutrition.
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50 free Nutrition, Fluids and Electrolytes MCQs from Fundamentals of Nursing, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.
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