Acid Base Interpretation

Question 1

Rule of the Bs

Answer 1

Bicarb, Both, Bolic
- If pH and bicarb are in OPPOSITE direction, or one is NORMAL, it’s RESPIRATORY

Question 2

Normal ABG Values

Answer 2

pH: 7.35-7.45
HCO3 (bicarb): 22-26
CO2 (respiratory): 45-35

Question 3

AciDosis

Answer 3

Decreased pH

Question 4

Alkalosis

Answer 4

Elevated pH

Question 5

As the pH goes…..

Answer 5

So goes my patient. (Except potassium)

Question 6

Signs of Alkalosis (elevated pH)

Answer 6

(Elevated symptoms except K+)
-irritability
-hyperreflexia (+3,+4)
-tachypnea
-tachycardia
-borborygme (hyperactive bowel)
-HYPOKALEMIA

Question 7

Signs of AciDosis (Decreased pH)

Answer 7

(Decreased signs except K+)
-hyporeflexia
-bradycardia
-lethargy
-obtunded (more lethargic)
-parlytic ileus
-coma
-HYPERKALEMIA

Question 8

Acid base imbalance most likely to SEIZE

Answer 8

Alkalosis (suction equipment at bedside)

Question 9

Acid base imbalance most likely to have respiratory arrest

Answer 9

Acidosis (ambu bag at bedside)

Question 10

Only acid base to cause KUSSMAULS respirations

Answer 10

Metabolic Acidosis
(Kussmauls is deep and labored breathing - compensatory mechanism)

Question 11

Questions to ask to find causes of acid base imbalances

Answer 11

Is it lung (respiratory)?
Or not lung (metabolic)?

Are they overventilating (alkalosis)?
Or underventilating (acidosis)?

Always pay attention to SaO2

Question 12

What determines over/under ventilation

Answer 12

SaO2 - NOT respiratory rate!

Question 13

If you don’t know what it is…..

Answer 13

Metabolic Acidosis