Acid-base: Respiratory Alkalosis

Question 1

Signs and symptoms of respiratory alkalosis

Answer 1

1. lethargy, confusion, lightheadedness
2. seizures
3. tachycardia
4. hypokalemia
5. nausea and vomiting
6. deep rapid breathing
7. numbness and tingling of extremities

Question 2

Risk factors for Respiratory alkalosis

Answer 2

1. hyperventilation
2. anxiety
3. fear
4. mechanical ventilation
5. PE

Question 3

Interventions for Respiratory alkalosis

Answer 3

1. Monitor ABGs, VS, RR, etc.
2. Encourage pt to breathe slower
3. administer meds for underlying cause
4. monitor ventilator settings
5. maintain fluid status

Question 4

Interventions for infants with respiratory alkalosis

Answer 4

swaddling, calming touch, and/or speaking with a quiet voice

Question 5

Interventions for toddlers and preschoolers with respiratory alkalosis

Answer 5

holding a stuffed animal, singing familiar songs with a parent or caregiver, and talking quietly about their feelings

Question 6

Interventions for younger-school aged children with respiratory alkalosis

Answer 6

talking about something they enjoy, reading a familiar book aloud, and supportive listening and reassurance that the pain will go away

Question 7

Interventions for older children and adolescents with parethesis (tingling) caused by respiratory alkalosis

Answer 7

typical coping mechanisms, reassure them the pain will go away, and offer distraction via music or videos on an iPad or other electronic device