Nursing: A Concept-Based Approach to Learning Vol. 1 & 2, 3e (Pearson) Module 1 Acid-Base Balance The Concept of Acid-Base Balance 1) A client is brought to the emergency department (ED) after passing out in a local department store. The client has been fasting and has ketones in the urine. Which acid-base imbalance would the nurse expect to assess in this client? A) Metabolic acidosis B) Respiratory alkalosis C) Metabolic alkalosis D) Respiratory acidosis Answer: A Explanation: A) A client who is fasting is at risk for development of metabolic acidosis. The body recognizes fasting as starvation and begins to metabolize its own fatty acids into ketones, which are metabolic acids. Starvation would not result in respiratory acidosis or alkalosis or in metabolic alkalosis. B) A client who is fasting is at risk for development of metabolic acidosis. The body recognizes fasting as starvation and begins to metabolize its own fatty acids into ketones, which are metabolic acids. Starvation would not result in respiratory acidosis or alkalosis or in metabolic alkalosis. C) A client who is fasting is at risk for development of metabolic acidosis. The body recognizes fasting as starvation and begins to metabolize its own fatty acids into ketones, which are metabolic acids. Starvation would not result in respiratory acidosis or alkalosis or in metabolic alkalosis. D) A client who is fasting is at risk for development of metabolic acidosis. The body recognizes fasting as starvation and begins to metabolize its own fatty acids into ketones, which are metabolic acids. Starvation would not result in respiratory acidosis or alkalosis or in metabolic alkalosis. Page Ref: 6 Cognitive Level: Analyzing Client Need/Sub: Physiological Integrity: Physiological Adaptation Standards: QSEN Competencies: III.A.1. Demonstrate knowledge of basic scientific methods and processes. | AACN Essential Competencies: IX.3. Implement holistic, patient-centered care that reflects an understanding of human growth and development, pathophysiology, pharmacology, medical management and nursing management across the health-illness continuum, across lifespan, and in all healthcare settings. | NLN Competencies: Knowledge and Science: Relationships between knowledge/science and quality and safe patient care. | Nursing Process: Assessment Learning Outcome: 1.2. Differentiate alterations in acid-base balance. MNL LO: Analyze the concept of acid-base balance and its application to nursing care.