Care Manager Certification Practice Exam

What should be the nurse's primary focus when addressing metabolic alkalosis in a patient?

1. Administering a diuretic.

2. Monitoring potassium levels.

3. Assessing respiratory rate.

4. Providing oxygen therapy.

The correct answer is: Assessing respiratory rate.

When addressing metabolic alkalosis in a patient, the primary focus on assessing respiratory rate is crucial because respiratory function plays a significant role in managing acid-base balance. In cases of metabolic alkalosis, the body may attempt to compensate by decreasing the respiratory rate to retain carbon dioxide, a weak acid that can help lower the blood pH. By carefully monitoring the respiratory rate, the nurse can obtain valuable information about the patient’s compensation mechanisms and overall respiratory status. In metabolic alkalosis, understanding how respiratory changes may indicate the patient's response to the alkalosis is essential. A decreased respiratory rate could signify an adaptive response to retain CO2, which is central to correcting the alkalosis. This proactive assessment allows for timely interventions if there are signs of respiratory distress or inadequate compensation. The other options, while relevant to patient care, do not directly address the immediate compensatory mechanisms related to metabolic alkalosis in the same way. Administering a diuretic may inadvertently exacerbate the condition by promoting potassium loss and further complicating electrolyte balance. Monitoring potassium levels is important, particularly because hypokalemia can accompany metabolic alkalosis; however, it is a secondary concern compared to assessing the respiratory effort and compensatory responses. Providing oxygen therapy may be necessary in certain situations,