Aspirin (Salicylate) Poisoning

Salicylate (aspirin) poisoning can be acute (single large ingestion) or chronic (therapeutic dose accumulation, often in elderly). It is a medical emergency characterized by a complex mixed acid-base disorder. NCLEX-PN tests the hallmark signs, acid-base changes, and immediate interventions. Mechanism: Salicylates directly stimulate the respiratory center (causing hyperventilation and respiratory alkalosis) and uncouple oxidative phosphorylation (producing metabolic acidosis). The net result is a mixed respiratory alkalosis + metabolic acidosis. Run a 60-second scan: breathing work and oxygenation, perfusion and end organs, neuro baseline, likely infection sources, and devices that can fail quietly. When two answers feel partly right, pick the one that reduces imminent harm and matches orders for the role you were given. Train yourself to state the primary risk in one short phrase before you read the options so competing demands do not displace it.