What is the normal range for pH in arterial blood gases (ABG)?
7.35 - 7.45
This range indicates the normal acidity or alkalinity of blood.
What is the normal range for PaCO2 in arterial blood gases (ABG)?
35 - 45 mm Hg
This range reflects the partial pressure of carbon dioxide in arterial blood.
What is the normal range for HCO3- in arterial blood gases (ABG)?
22 - 26 mEq/L
This range indicates the concentration of bicarbonate in the blood.
What is the normal range for PaO2 in arterial blood gases (ABG)?
80–100 mm Hg
This range reflects the partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood.
What is the normal oxygen saturation level in arterial blood gases (ABG)?
> 94%
This indicates the percentage of hemoglobin binding sites in the bloodstream occupied by oxygen.
What is the normal base excess/deficit range in arterial blood gases (ABG)?
±2 mEq/L
This range helps assess the metabolic component of acid-base balance.
What is the major extracellular fluid buffer system?
Bicarbonate–carbonic acid buffer system
This system helps maintain acid-base balance in the body.
What regulates bicarbonate in extracellular fluid (ECF)?
Kidneys
The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining acid-base balance by regulating bicarbonate levels.
What regulates CO2 in the body?
Lungs
The lungs, under the control of the medulla, regulate carbon dioxide levels in the blood.
What is the pH level indicating metabolic acidosis?
<7.35
This indicates an increase in hydrogen ion concentration and a decrease in bicarbonate.
What are common causes of metabolic acidosis?
- Salicylate poisoning
- Renal failure
- Propylene glycol toxicity
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Starvation
These conditions can lead to a decrease in bicarbonate and an increase in hydrogen ions.
What are clinical manifestations of metabolic acidosis?
- Headache
- Confusion
- Drowsiness
- Increased respiratory rate
- Decreased blood pressure
- Dysrhythmias
- Shock
Symptoms may vary based on the severity and speed of onset.
What is the pH level indicating metabolic alkalosis?
> 7.45
This indicates an increase in bicarbonate concentration.
What are common causes of metabolic alkalosis?
- Vomiting
- Gastric suction
- Long-term diuretic use
- Hyperaldosteronism
- Cushing’s syndrome
These conditions can lead to an increase in bicarbonate.
What are clinical manifestations of metabolic alkalosis?
- Symptoms related to decreased calcium
- Respiratory depression
- Tachycardia
- Symptoms of hypokalemia
Symptoms may include tingling, dizziness, and decreased GI motility.
What is the pH level indicating respiratory acidosis?
<7.35
This indicates inadequate ventilation and elevated CO2 levels.
What are common causes of respiratory acidosis?
- Pulmonary edema
- Overdose
- Atelectasis
- Pneumothorax
- Severe obesity
- COPD
These conditions lead to inadequate ventilation and increased CO2.
What are clinical manifestations of respiratory acidosis?
- Increased pulse
- Increased respiratory rate
- Mental changes
- Feeling of fullness in head
Symptoms may vary based on whether the acidosis is acute or chronic.
What is the pH level indicating respiratory alkalosis?
> 7.45
This indicates hyperventilation and decreased CO2 levels.
What are common causes of respiratory alkalosis?
- Extreme anxiety
- Panic disorder
- Hypoxemia
- Salicylate intoxication
These conditions lead to hyperventilation.
What are clinical manifestations of respiratory alkalosis?
- Lightheadedness
- Inability to concentrate
- Numbness and tingling in extremities
- Tachycardia
Symptoms may include arrhythmias and changes in serum electrolyte levels.
What is the correct interpretation of the following ABG: pH = 7.5, PaCO2 = 37, HCO3 = 30?
D. Metabolic Alkalosis
The pH is above normal, indicating alkalosis, with HCO3 also elevated.
