A nurse is caring for a client who is at risk for respiratory alkalosis. Which of the following alterations should the nurse identify as an increased risk for this condition?

A. Excessive intake of bicarbonate: Excessive intake of bicarbonate would more lead to metabolic alkalosis, not respiratory alkalosis. Respiratory alkalosis is caused by excessive exhalation of carbon dioxide, not by intake of bicarbonate. B. Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS): ARDS generally leads to respiratory acidosis due to impaired gas exchange and retention of carbon dioxide, not respiratory alkalosis. C. Hyperventilation: Hyperventilation is the most common cause of respiratory alkalosis. It leads to excessive exhalation of carbon dioxide, causing a decrease in blood carbon dioxide levels and an increase in blood pH. D. Kyphosis: Kyphosis, a spinal deformity, could affect lung expansion but is not a direct cause of respiratory alkalosis. It might lead to other respiratory issues, but it does not primarily increase the risk of alkalosis.