5 main things measured in ABG
Additional potential labs in an ABG
What is the technical term definition for base excess?
The amount of acid or base needed (at 100% SaO2 and 37 C) to return
Clinical definition of base excess
Refers to pt’s respiratory acid/base status
PaCO2
Normal base excess
-2 to 2 mmol/L
Negative base excess
> -2 mmol/L
Positive base excess
> 2 mmol/L
High H+ concentration causes a (high/low) pH
Low pH (acidic)
Low H+ concentration causes a (high/low) pH
High pH (alkalotic)
Normal pH range
7.35-7.45
What determines pH?
The HCO3- to PaCO2 ratio
Consequences of acidosis
Consequences of alkalosis
Normal venous CO2
24-30 mEq/L
Normal arterial HCO3-
22-26 mEq/L
Normal PaCO2
35-45 mmHg
Normal PvCO2
40-50 mmHg
The PvCO2 to PaCO2 gradient increases if ____
the patient is poorly perfused
Normal PaO2 of the atmosphere at sea level
160 mmHg
Normal PaO2 in arterial blood
70-100 mmHg
PaO2 in arterial blood decreases ____
with age
normal PvO2
30-40 mmHg
Normal CaO2
16-20 mL/dL