- metabolic acidosis.
- metabolic alkalosis.
- respiratory alkalosis.
- respiratory acidosis.
A 5-year-old boy ingested aspirin tablets, thinking they were candies. The nurse is most concerned about
Number 1 is correct.
Rationale: Salicylate (aspirin) toxicity can lead to metabolic acidosis in children and adults. Signs and symptoms of metabolic acidosis include hypoxia, Kussmaul respirations, nausea/vomiting, cardiac arrhythmia, and seizures. An overdose of aspirin would not likely cause the other conditions listed.