Question

The nurse is assessing a client with suspected aspirin overdose. Which assessment findings would support this diagnosis? Select all that apply.

Jaundice
Serum pH 7.31 Correct Answer (Blank)
Tinnitus Correct Answer (Blank)
Headache Correct Answer (Blank)
Hypoglycemia
Respiratory rate of 28

Answer 1

In a suspected aspirin overdose, assessment findings such as metabolic acidosis (serum pH 7.31), tinnitus, headache, and an increased respiratory rate (respiratory rate of 28) would support the diagnosis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The assessment findings that would support the diagnosis of an aspirin overdose in a client are primarily based on understanding the pathophysiology of the condition. A serum pH of 7.31 indicates metabolic acidosis, which is a typical result of an aspirin overdose due to the acidity of its metabolite, sulfasalicylic acid. Tinnitus is a well-recognized symptom related to aspirin toxicity, often experienced as ringing in the ears.

A headache can also be a manifestation of salicylate toxicity. An increased respiratory rate such as respiratory rate of 28 may represent respiratory alkalosis, which is the body's initial compensatory mechanism to counteract the metabolic acidosis caused by an aspirin overdose. This condition leads to an increased breathing rate to expel excess CO₂ and thus increase blood pH.

Although jaundice and hypoglycemia can be associated with other conditions, they are not classic signs of aspirin overdose. However, hypoglycemia may be observed in severe cases, particularly in children.