Approach to respiratory alkalosis Quiz: Ace Your Exams

Get ready to dominate your medical and nursing exams by using our dynamic quizzes to elevate your knowledge and increase your confidence. Whether you're gearing up for the USMLE®, COMLEX®, or your next in-class assessment, Osmosis quizzes tackle key topics in pathology, diagnostics, and treatment approaches. By honing in on clinical readiness and decision-making, we make sure the knowledge you gain empowers you both in the classroom and in real-world practice. Jump in and supercharge your exam prep!

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A 24-year-old woman presents to the emergency department after experiencing 20 minutes of dyspnea, dizziness, and tingling in her hands and around her mouth. She reports that these symptoms began suddenly after she had an argument with her partner. She denies chest pain, palpitations, or recent illnesses. Medical history is significant for panic disorder, for which she takes sertraline. Temperature is 37°C (98.6°F), heart rate is 110 beats/minute, blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg, respiratory rate is 30/minute, and oxygen saturation is 99% on room air. On examination, she appears anxious and is breathing deeply. Her lungs are clear on auscultation, and the rest of her examination is unremarkable. A chest radiograph demonstrates no abnormalities. Arterial blood gas (ABG) results are listed below. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial management for this patient?

Laboratory Test	Result	Reference Range
pH	7.53	7.35-7.45
PaCO₂	27 mmHg	33-45 mmHg
PaO₂	95 mmHg	75-105 mmHg
HCO₃	20 mEq/L	22-28 mEq/L

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Choose an option:

Reassurance and breathing retraining

Intravenous bicarbonate

Supplemental oxygen via nasal cannula

Rapid sequence intubation

Bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP)