NR 324 ADULT HEALTH I EXAM 1 QUESTIONS & ANSWERS | COMPREHENSIVE FLUID & ELECTROLYTE AND RESPIR… EXAM
P R O F E S S I O N A L P R A C T I C E M AT E R I A L S
NR 324 Adult Health I Exam 1 Questions
& Answers | Comprehensive Fluid &
Electrolyte and Respiratory Review |
Chamberlain University | 2026/2027
Verified Answers Exam Ready With Rationales
100 QUESTIONS
DOCUMENT OVERVIEW
This comprehensive review document provides 100 exam questions with pre-supplied correct answers and
detailed rationales, focusing on adult health fluid and electrolyte and respiratory concepts. It serves as an
excellent resource for students to study and review these critical nursing topics, aiding in exam preparation
and knowledge reinforcement.
CONTENTS
01 ABG Interpretation Q1–Q30
02 Fluid Volume & Sodium Q31–Q55
03 Potassium & Magnesium Q56–Q72
04 Calcium & Phosphorus Q73–Q84
05 Respiratory Assessment Q85–Q99
06 Additional Questions Q100–Q100
E XA M Q U EST I O N S
Q1 QUESTION 1 OF 100
A nurse is reviewing arterial blood gas (ABG) results for a patient experiencing respiratory distress. The partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) is reported as
75 mm Hg. Which of the following statements accurately reflects the interpretation of this laboratory value in the context of normal findings?
A) The PaO2 is within the expected reference range.
B) The PaO2 indicates adequate oxygen saturation.
C) The PaO2 is below the typical minimum for a healthy adult.
D) The PaO2 suggests mild hypoxemia.
Page 1
,E) The PaO2 is consistent with hyperoxia.
F) The PaO2 demonstrates normal tissue perfusion.
CORRECT ANSWER
C) The PaO2 is below the typical minimum for a healthy adult.
D) The PaO2 suggests mild hypoxemia.
RATIONALE
A PaO2 of 75 mm Hg falls below the typical minimum reference range of 80 mm Hg, indicating hypoxemia and potentially inadequate oxygen delivery to tissues.
Q2 QUESTION 2 OF 100
A patient's arterial blood gas analysis reveals a pH of 7.28. Which of the following interpretations requires immediate nursing intervention?
A) The pH is within the normal laboratory reference range.
B) The pH indicates a compensated metabolic acidosis.
C) The pH reflects a mild respiratory alkalosis.
D) The pH demonstrates uncompensated respiratory acidosis.
E) The pH suggests a moderate metabolic alkalosis.
CORRECT ANSWER
D) The pH demonstrates uncompensated respiratory acidosis.
RATIONALE
An uncompensated respiratory acidosis presents with a decreased pH and a normal or elevated PaCO2, indicating the respiratory system is failing to eliminate CO2,
leading to acid accumulation and a lower pH. This state requires prompt intervention to improve ventilation.
Q3 QUESTION 3 OF 100
A nurse is reviewing arterial blood gas (ABG) results for a 72-year-old male client admitted with severe pneumonia. His ABG results show a pH of 7.25,
PaCO2 of 55 mmHg, and HCO3 of 24 mEq/L. What acid-base imbalance do these findings indicate?
A) Metabolic alkalosis
B) Respiratory alkalosis
C) Metabolic acidosis
D) Respiratory acidosis
CORRECT ANSWER
D) Respiratory acidosis
RATIONALE
A low pH (<7.35) signifies acidosis, and an elevated PaCO2 (>45 mmHg) indicates a respiratory cause, pointing to respiratory acidosis from impaired carbon dioxide
excretion.
Q4 QUESTION 4 OF 100
A 78-year-old male postoperative patient, 24 hours after a bowel resection, has an arterial blood gas (ABG) result showing a pH of 7.52, PaCO2 of 30
mmHg, and HCO3 of 22 mEq/L. The nurse notes the patient is experiencing mild tremors and muscle twitching. Which acid-base imbalance is indicated
by these findings?
A) Metabolic acidosis
Page 2
,B) Respiratory acidosis
C) Metabolic alkalosis
D) Respiratory alkalosis
CORRECT ANSWER
D) Respiratory alkalosis
RATIONALE
The elevated pH (7.52) coupled with a decreased PaCO2 (30 mmHg) indicates a primary respiratory disturbance causing alkalosis, consistent with hyperventilation.
Q5 QUESTION 5 OF 100
The nurse is reviewing arterial blood gas results for a patient experiencing acute respiratory distress. The partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) is
reported as 52 mm Hg. Which of the following nursing actions are indicated based on this finding? (Select all that apply.)
A) Administer a prescribed bronchodilator.
B) Increase the rate of mechanical ventilation.
C) Instruct the patient to take slow, deep breaths.
D) Encourage coughing and deep breathing exercises.
E) Administer a prescribed opioid analgesic.
F) Assess the patient for signs of hypocarbia.
CORRECT ANSWER
A) Administer a prescribed bronchodilator.
B) Increase the rate of mechanical ventilation.
D) Encourage coughing and deep breathing exercises.
RATIONALE
An elevated PaCO2 indicates hypoventilation and respiratory acidosis; therefore, interventions should focus on improving ventilation such as administering
bronchodilators, increasing ventilator support, and promoting effective airway clearance. Conversely, slow, deep breaths and opioid analgesics can further depress
respiration.
Q6 QUESTION 6 OF 100
A 68-year-old male patient admitted with severe vomiting and diarrhea presents with lethargy and confusion. His arterial blood gas (ABG) results show
a pH of 7.52, PaCO2 of 38 mmHg, and PaO2 of 95 mmHg. The nurse notes his serum bicarbonate level is 21 mEq/L. What is the MOST appropriate next
nursing action?
A) Administer a prescribed intravenous bolus of normal saline.
B) Encourage oral fluid intake with electrolyte-rich beverages.
C) Assess the patient's respiratory rate and depth.
D) Prepare to administer sodium bicarbonate intravenously.
CORRECT ANSWER
C) Assess the patient's respiratory rate and depth.
RATIONALE
The ABG indicates respiratory alkalosis with hypobicarbonatemia; therefore, assessing respiratory status is the priority to identify compensatory mechanisms or
underlying respiratory issues before initiating interventions for fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
Q7 QUESTION 7 OF 100
Page 3
, A 68-year-old male with a history of COPD is admitted to the medical-surgical unit with increased shortness of breath. His arterial blood gas results
reveal a pH of 7.28, PaCO2 of 65 mmHg, and HCO3 of 28 mEq/L. The nurse assesses him as experiencing respiratory distress. Which interventions should
the nurse anticipate implementing for this patient? (Select all that apply.)
A) Administer intravenous normal saline at 125 mL/hr.
B) Encourage the use of the incentive spirometer every hour while awake.
C) Prepare to administer a rapid-acting bronchodilator via nebulizer.
D) Elevate the head of the bed to a high-Fowler's position.
E) Initiate airborne precautions immediately.
F) Provide supplemental oxygen therapy at 2 L/min via nasal cannula.
CORRECT ANSWER
B) Encourage the use of the incentive spirometer every hour while awake.
C) Prepare to administer a rapid-acting bronchodilator via nebulizer.
D) Elevate the head of the bed to a high-Fowler's position.
F) Provide supplemental oxygen therapy at 2 L/min via nasal cannula.
RATIONALE
A pH of 7.28 and PaCO2 of 65 mmHg indicate respiratory acidosis, requiring interventions to improve ventilation and oxygenation, such as positioning,
bronchodilators, oxygen, and incentive spirometry, while normal saline and airborne precautions are not directly indicated by these findings.
Q8 QUESTION 8 OF 100
A 68-year-old male admitted for a severe asthma exacerbation is intubated and placed on mechanical ventilation. His arterial blood gas results reveal a
pH of 7.22, PaCO2 of 68 mmHg, and PaO2 of 75 mmHg. The nurse anticipates which of the following contributing factors to the patient's respiratory
acidosis? (Select all that apply.)
A) Administration of intravenous sedatives for comfort during ventilation.
B) Aggressive fluid resuscitation to manage hypovolemia.
C) Persistent bronchospasm leading to impaired gas exchange.
D) Prolonged immobility due to sedation and illness.
E) Over-administration of oxygen to maintain adequate saturation.
CORRECT ANSWER
A) Administration of intravenous sedatives for comfort during ventilation.
C) Persistent bronchospasm leading to impaired gas exchange.
RATIONALE
Respiratory depression from sedatives and impaired alveolar-capillary diffusion due to bronchospasm are direct causes of CO2 retention, leading to respiratory
acidosis. Aggressive fluid resuscitation and oxygen administration do not cause acidosis.
Q9 QUESTION 9 OF 100
A nurse is assessing a 68-year-old male patient admitted to the medical-surgical unit with a history of COPD exacerbation. The patient presents with
lethargy, a blood pressure of 90/50 mmHg, and shallow, rapid respirations at 28 breaths/min. His skin appears pale and diaphoretic, and he complains of
a dull headache. Arterial blood gas results reveal a pH of 7.28, PaCO2 of 65 mmHg, and HCO3 of 28 mEq/L. Which of the following signs and symptoms
are MOST consistent with the patient's current respiratory status? (Select all that apply.)
A) Deep, slow respirations
B) Marked hyperreflexia
C) Muscle fasciculations
D) Skin and mucous membrane pallor or cyanosis
Page 4
P R O F E S S I O N A L P R A C T I C E M AT E R I A L S
NR 324 Adult Health I Exam 1 Questions
& Answers | Comprehensive Fluid &
Electrolyte and Respiratory Review |
Chamberlain University | 2026/2027
Verified Answers Exam Ready With Rationales
100 QUESTIONS
DOCUMENT OVERVIEW
This comprehensive review document provides 100 exam questions with pre-supplied correct answers and
detailed rationales, focusing on adult health fluid and electrolyte and respiratory concepts. It serves as an
excellent resource for students to study and review these critical nursing topics, aiding in exam preparation
and knowledge reinforcement.
CONTENTS
01 ABG Interpretation Q1–Q30
02 Fluid Volume & Sodium Q31–Q55
03 Potassium & Magnesium Q56–Q72
04 Calcium & Phosphorus Q73–Q84
05 Respiratory Assessment Q85–Q99
06 Additional Questions Q100–Q100
E XA M Q U EST I O N S
Q1 QUESTION 1 OF 100
A nurse is reviewing arterial blood gas (ABG) results for a patient experiencing respiratory distress. The partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) is reported as
75 mm Hg. Which of the following statements accurately reflects the interpretation of this laboratory value in the context of normal findings?
A) The PaO2 is within the expected reference range.
B) The PaO2 indicates adequate oxygen saturation.
C) The PaO2 is below the typical minimum for a healthy adult.
D) The PaO2 suggests mild hypoxemia.
Page 1
,E) The PaO2 is consistent with hyperoxia.
F) The PaO2 demonstrates normal tissue perfusion.
CORRECT ANSWER
C) The PaO2 is below the typical minimum for a healthy adult.
D) The PaO2 suggests mild hypoxemia.
RATIONALE
A PaO2 of 75 mm Hg falls below the typical minimum reference range of 80 mm Hg, indicating hypoxemia and potentially inadequate oxygen delivery to tissues.
Q2 QUESTION 2 OF 100
A patient's arterial blood gas analysis reveals a pH of 7.28. Which of the following interpretations requires immediate nursing intervention?
A) The pH is within the normal laboratory reference range.
B) The pH indicates a compensated metabolic acidosis.
C) The pH reflects a mild respiratory alkalosis.
D) The pH demonstrates uncompensated respiratory acidosis.
E) The pH suggests a moderate metabolic alkalosis.
CORRECT ANSWER
D) The pH demonstrates uncompensated respiratory acidosis.
RATIONALE
An uncompensated respiratory acidosis presents with a decreased pH and a normal or elevated PaCO2, indicating the respiratory system is failing to eliminate CO2,
leading to acid accumulation and a lower pH. This state requires prompt intervention to improve ventilation.
Q3 QUESTION 3 OF 100
A nurse is reviewing arterial blood gas (ABG) results for a 72-year-old male client admitted with severe pneumonia. His ABG results show a pH of 7.25,
PaCO2 of 55 mmHg, and HCO3 of 24 mEq/L. What acid-base imbalance do these findings indicate?
A) Metabolic alkalosis
B) Respiratory alkalosis
C) Metabolic acidosis
D) Respiratory acidosis
CORRECT ANSWER
D) Respiratory acidosis
RATIONALE
A low pH (<7.35) signifies acidosis, and an elevated PaCO2 (>45 mmHg) indicates a respiratory cause, pointing to respiratory acidosis from impaired carbon dioxide
excretion.
Q4 QUESTION 4 OF 100
A 78-year-old male postoperative patient, 24 hours after a bowel resection, has an arterial blood gas (ABG) result showing a pH of 7.52, PaCO2 of 30
mmHg, and HCO3 of 22 mEq/L. The nurse notes the patient is experiencing mild tremors and muscle twitching. Which acid-base imbalance is indicated
by these findings?
A) Metabolic acidosis
Page 2
,B) Respiratory acidosis
C) Metabolic alkalosis
D) Respiratory alkalosis
CORRECT ANSWER
D) Respiratory alkalosis
RATIONALE
The elevated pH (7.52) coupled with a decreased PaCO2 (30 mmHg) indicates a primary respiratory disturbance causing alkalosis, consistent with hyperventilation.
Q5 QUESTION 5 OF 100
The nurse is reviewing arterial blood gas results for a patient experiencing acute respiratory distress. The partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) is
reported as 52 mm Hg. Which of the following nursing actions are indicated based on this finding? (Select all that apply.)
A) Administer a prescribed bronchodilator.
B) Increase the rate of mechanical ventilation.
C) Instruct the patient to take slow, deep breaths.
D) Encourage coughing and deep breathing exercises.
E) Administer a prescribed opioid analgesic.
F) Assess the patient for signs of hypocarbia.
CORRECT ANSWER
A) Administer a prescribed bronchodilator.
B) Increase the rate of mechanical ventilation.
D) Encourage coughing and deep breathing exercises.
RATIONALE
An elevated PaCO2 indicates hypoventilation and respiratory acidosis; therefore, interventions should focus on improving ventilation such as administering
bronchodilators, increasing ventilator support, and promoting effective airway clearance. Conversely, slow, deep breaths and opioid analgesics can further depress
respiration.
Q6 QUESTION 6 OF 100
A 68-year-old male patient admitted with severe vomiting and diarrhea presents with lethargy and confusion. His arterial blood gas (ABG) results show
a pH of 7.52, PaCO2 of 38 mmHg, and PaO2 of 95 mmHg. The nurse notes his serum bicarbonate level is 21 mEq/L. What is the MOST appropriate next
nursing action?
A) Administer a prescribed intravenous bolus of normal saline.
B) Encourage oral fluid intake with electrolyte-rich beverages.
C) Assess the patient's respiratory rate and depth.
D) Prepare to administer sodium bicarbonate intravenously.
CORRECT ANSWER
C) Assess the patient's respiratory rate and depth.
RATIONALE
The ABG indicates respiratory alkalosis with hypobicarbonatemia; therefore, assessing respiratory status is the priority to identify compensatory mechanisms or
underlying respiratory issues before initiating interventions for fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
Q7 QUESTION 7 OF 100
Page 3
, A 68-year-old male with a history of COPD is admitted to the medical-surgical unit with increased shortness of breath. His arterial blood gas results
reveal a pH of 7.28, PaCO2 of 65 mmHg, and HCO3 of 28 mEq/L. The nurse assesses him as experiencing respiratory distress. Which interventions should
the nurse anticipate implementing for this patient? (Select all that apply.)
A) Administer intravenous normal saline at 125 mL/hr.
B) Encourage the use of the incentive spirometer every hour while awake.
C) Prepare to administer a rapid-acting bronchodilator via nebulizer.
D) Elevate the head of the bed to a high-Fowler's position.
E) Initiate airborne precautions immediately.
F) Provide supplemental oxygen therapy at 2 L/min via nasal cannula.
CORRECT ANSWER
B) Encourage the use of the incentive spirometer every hour while awake.
C) Prepare to administer a rapid-acting bronchodilator via nebulizer.
D) Elevate the head of the bed to a high-Fowler's position.
F) Provide supplemental oxygen therapy at 2 L/min via nasal cannula.
RATIONALE
A pH of 7.28 and PaCO2 of 65 mmHg indicate respiratory acidosis, requiring interventions to improve ventilation and oxygenation, such as positioning,
bronchodilators, oxygen, and incentive spirometry, while normal saline and airborne precautions are not directly indicated by these findings.
Q8 QUESTION 8 OF 100
A 68-year-old male admitted for a severe asthma exacerbation is intubated and placed on mechanical ventilation. His arterial blood gas results reveal a
pH of 7.22, PaCO2 of 68 mmHg, and PaO2 of 75 mmHg. The nurse anticipates which of the following contributing factors to the patient's respiratory
acidosis? (Select all that apply.)
A) Administration of intravenous sedatives for comfort during ventilation.
B) Aggressive fluid resuscitation to manage hypovolemia.
C) Persistent bronchospasm leading to impaired gas exchange.
D) Prolonged immobility due to sedation and illness.
E) Over-administration of oxygen to maintain adequate saturation.
CORRECT ANSWER
A) Administration of intravenous sedatives for comfort during ventilation.
C) Persistent bronchospasm leading to impaired gas exchange.
RATIONALE
Respiratory depression from sedatives and impaired alveolar-capillary diffusion due to bronchospasm are direct causes of CO2 retention, leading to respiratory
acidosis. Aggressive fluid resuscitation and oxygen administration do not cause acidosis.
Q9 QUESTION 9 OF 100
A nurse is assessing a 68-year-old male patient admitted to the medical-surgical unit with a history of COPD exacerbation. The patient presents with
lethargy, a blood pressure of 90/50 mmHg, and shallow, rapid respirations at 28 breaths/min. His skin appears pale and diaphoretic, and he complains of
a dull headache. Arterial blood gas results reveal a pH of 7.28, PaCO2 of 65 mmHg, and HCO3 of 28 mEq/L. Which of the following signs and symptoms
are MOST consistent with the patient's current respiratory status? (Select all that apply.)
A) Deep, slow respirations
B) Marked hyperreflexia
C) Muscle fasciculations
D) Skin and mucous membrane pallor or cyanosis
Page 4
