Moderate

A patient with acute gastroenteritis has frequent vomiting and diarrhoea. Which laboratory finding is most consistent with loss of gastric acid from prolonged vomiting?

Correct answer: A. Metabolic alkalosis

  • A. Metabolic alkalosis
  • B. Respiratory alkalosis
  • C. Metabolic acidosis
  • D. Respiratory acidosis

Explanation

Vomiting removes hydrochloric acid and may produce metabolic alkalosis, especially when fluid and chloride losses are prolonged. Diarrhoea more commonly causes metabolic acidosis through bicarbonate loss.

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About Gastrointestinal and Liver Nursing

Covers nursing care for peptic ulcer disease, gastroenteritis, inflammatory bowel disease, intestinal obstruction, hepatitis, cirrhosis and portal hypertension. It includes nutrition, fluid and electrolyte management, abdominal assessment, gastrointestinal bleeding, ascites and hepatic encephalopathy, which must be distinguished from other causes of altered consciousness.

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