ABG INTERPRETATION

Question 1

NORMAL VALUES

Answer 1

→ pH: 7.35 to 7.45
▪ If the pH is normal:
➢ acidosis < 7.4 > alkalosis

→ PaCO2: 35 to 45mmHg

→ HCO3-: 22 to 26 mEq/L

Question 2

→ One body system has made no attempt to compensate to change the pH.

Answer 2

❖ UNCOMPENSATED

Question 3

→ One body system is attempting to compensate but has not change the pH to normal

Answer 3

❖ PARTIALLY COMPENSATED

Question 4

→ If the pH is within the normal level and the values of respiratory and metabolic components are outside their normal changes.

Answer 4

❖ FULLY COMPENSATED

Question 5

1. pH – 7.30; PaCO2 – 38; HCO3 – 16

Answer 5

Answer: Uncompensated Metabolic Acidosis

• Interpretation: The pH level is not within the normal range therefore it is uncompensated and an acidosis. The PaCO2 normal and is not compensating while the HCO3 is below the normal range resulting to metabolic acidosis.

Question 6

2. pH – 7.38; PaCO2 – 49; HCO3 – 30

Answer 6

Answer: Compensated Respiratory Acidosis

• Interpretation: The pH level is within the normal range therefore it is compensated. The PaCO2 is above the normal range therefore the person is hypoventilating while the HCO3 is
  above the normal range and is compensating by releasing bicarbonate

Question 7

3. pH – 7.50; PaCO2 – 30; HCO3 – 25

Answer 7

Answer: Uncompensated Respiratory Alkalosis

• Interpretation: The pH level is not within the normal range therefore it is uncompensated and is alkalotic. The PaCO2 is below the normal range resulting to hyperventilation
  while the HCO3 is normal and is not compensating