What are the signs and symptoms the nurse assesses for a client at risk for respiratory alkalosis?

In assessing a client at risk for respiratory alkalosis, monitoring for dizziness and paresthesias is key. Respiratory alkalosis occurs when there is an excess loss of carbon dioxide from the body, often due to hyperventilation. This condition leads to a decrease in carbonic acid levels in the blood, raising the pH and resulting in symptoms associated with alkalosis.

Dizziness can occur due to changes in cerebral blood flow resulting from altered acid-base balance. When carbon dioxide levels drop significantly, it can lead to vasoconstriction of cerebral blood vessels, which in turn causes symptoms like lightheadedness or dizziness.

Paresthesias, which refer to sensations such as tingling or numbness, frequently affect the extremities and are often associated with the decrease in ionized calcium that occurs during respiratory alkalosis. The altered pH can influence neuromuscular excitability, causing these abnormal sensations.

In contrast, other choices include symptoms that may not directly relate to respiratory alkalosis. For instance, confusion and lethargy might indicate other metabolic imbalances or decreased oxygenation but are not specific signs of respiratory alkalosis. Similarly, fever and chills do not align with this condition and hint at potential infections or other medical issues. Dis