PCCN Exam with Other Questions and Answers

PCCN Exam with Other Questions and Answers Which artery or arteries are responsible for anterior circulation to the brain? A. External carotid B. Internal carotid C. Basilar D. Vertebral ANSWER B. Internal carotid The brain is supplied with oxygenated blood from two arterial systems: the anterior circulation originating with the carotid arteries and the posterior circulation, which originates with the vertebral arteries. The common carotid arteries bifurcate, forming the external and internal carotid arteries. A 51 year old man is in the PCU with a diagnosis of acute respiratory failure, possibly secondary to sepsis. His last VS and labs were as follows: BP 108/60, NSR 70, Temp 38.8C, SPO2 99%, pH 7.52, PaCO2 29, PsO2 109, HCO3 29. Based on the above ABGs, what is your interpretation of this patient's condition? A. Uncompensated respiratory alkalosis B. Respiratory acidosis with a compensating metabolic alkalosis C. Compensated metabolic alkalosis D. Uncompensated respiratory acidosis ANSWER A. Uncompensated respiratory alkalosis The pH is alkalotic at 7.52, the PaCO2 is low at 29 indicating the alkalosis is due to respiratory issue. When the pH and the PCO2 move in opposite directions, the primary problem is often respiratory in origin.