Posted: November 7th, 2017

Which primary acid-base imbalance is the client at risk for

Liza’s mother is seen in the emergency department at a community hospital.

She admits that her mother is taking many tablets of aspirin (salicylates) over the last 24-hour period because of a severe headache. Also, the mother complains of an inability to urinate.

The nurse on duty took her vital signs and noted the following: Temp = 97.8 °F; apical pulse = 95; respiration = 32 and deep.

Which primary acid-base imbalance is the client at risk for if medical attention is not provided?

A. Respiratory Acidosis
B. Respiratory Alkalosis
C. Metabolic Acidosis
D. Metabolic Alkalosis