Metabolic Acidosis vs. Metabolic Alkalosis (R3)

Question 1

Metabolic Acidosis

Pathophysiology

Answer 1

1. Kidney problem
   - Too much hydrogen; Too little HCO3
2. Lungs compensate
   - Lungs will blow off CO2

Question 2

Metabolic Acidosis

Causes

Answer 2

1. Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
   - not enough insulin = ↑fat metabolism = excess ketones (acid)
2. Acute/Chronic kidney injury
3. Malnutrition
   - breaking down of fats = excess ketones (acid)
4. Severe diarrhea

Question 3

Metabolic Acidosis

Signs and Symptoms

Answer 3

1. ↑RR
2. Confusion
3. Hyperkalemia
   - muscle twitching
   - weakness
   - arrhythmias

Question 4

Metabolic Alkalosis

Pathophysiology

Answer 4

1. Kidney problem
   - too much HCO3; Too little hydrogen
2. Lungs compensate
   - lungs will retain CO2

Question 5

Metabolic Alkalosis

Causes

Answer 5

1. Too much antacids
   - too much sodium bicarbonate (acid)
2. Diuretics
3. Hyperaldosteronism
4. Excess vomiting
   - excess loss of hydrochloric acid (HCL) from the stomach

Question 6

Metabolic Alkalosis

Signs and Symptoms

Answer 6

↓RR
↓K levels
- dysrhythmias
- muscle cramps/weakness
- vomiting
- tremors and tetany
- EKG changes

Question 7

If pH is out of range and CO2 or HCO3 is in range

Answer 7

Uncompensated

Question 8

If pH, CO2, and HCO3 are all out of range

Answer 8

Partially compensated

Question 9

If pH is normal

Answer 9

Fully compensated