The nurse is caring for a patient who is anxious and dizzy following a traumatic

Correct Answer: 1

Rationale 1: This patient is exhibiting signs of hyperventilation that is confirmed with the blood gas results of respiratory alkalosis. Breathing into a paper bag will help the patient to retain carbon dioxide and lower oxygen levels to normal, correcting the cause of the problem.

Rationale 2: The oxygen levels are high, so oxygen is not indicated, and would exacerbate the problem if given. Intravenous fluids would not be the initial intervention.

Rationale 3: Not enough information is given to determine the need for intravenous fluids.

Rationale 4: Bicarbonate would be contraindicated as the pH is already high.

Global Rationale: This patient is exhibiting signs of hyperventilation that is confirmed with the blood gas results of respiratory alkalosis. Breathing into a paper bag will help the patient to retain carbon dioxide and lower oxygen levels to normal, correcting the cause of the problem. The oxygen levels are high, so oxygen is not indicated, and would exacerbate the problem if given. Intravenous fluids would not be the initial intervention. Not enough information is given to determine the need for intravenous fluids. Bicarbonate would be contraindicated as the pH is already high.