Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 86%
Simulated
A nurse is collecting data from a client who reports persistent vomiting, dizziness, palpitations, and numbness and tingling in his fingers and toes and around his mouth. The nurse notes the client's respirations are slow and shallow. The nurse should suspect that the client has developed which of the following acid-base imbalances?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
Metabolic alkalosis occurs due to a loss of hydrogen ions or an excess of bicarbonate, commonly caused by prolonged vomiting. The symptoms described, including persistent vomiting, tingling, and slow, shallow respirations, are consistent with metabolic alkalosis.