A client admitted with severe lobar pneumonia is receiving targeted intravenous antibiotic therapy. During hourly rounds, the nurse observes that the client has become increasingly agitated and diaphoretic. Current vital signs include a temperature of (), a heart rate of beats per minute, a respiratory rate of breaths per minute, and a blood pressure of .
An arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis is drawn and reveals the following results:
| Parameter | Result |
|---|---|
Based on these assessment findings, which physiological alteration is the client most likely experiencing?
- Systemic tissue hypoperfusion resulting in metabolic acidosisCevap
- BUncompensated respiratory alkalosis caused by infection-induced tachypnea
- CPrimary respiratory acidosis developing from respiratory muscle fatigue
- DExpected hyperdynamic cardiovascular response to the elevated core temperature
Cevap
The correct answer is systemic tissue hypoperfusion resulting in metabolic acidosis. This is evidenced by the client's progression to early septic shock, characterized by agitation, tachycardia, borderline hypotension, and an ABG confirming a primary metabolic acidosis.
The correct answer identifies that the client is experiencing systemic tissue hypoperfusion resulting in a metabolic acidosis. The client's presentation of a severe infection combined with new-onset agitation, tachycardia, and a blood pressure of 94/68 mm Hg are classic indicators of early septic shock. As tissues become deprived of oxygen, they shift to anaerobic metabolism, which rapidly produces lactic acid. This accumulation of lactic acid consumes bicarbonate buffers, causing the primary metabolic acidosis seen on the ABG (pH 7.28, HCO3- 14 mEq/L).
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Septic shock presents with signs of systemic hypoperfusion (hypotension, altered mental status, tachycardia), which forces cells into anaerobic metabolism, leading to lactic acid production and a subsequent metabolic acidosis.