ABG Flashcards
Why is Acid Base Balance Important?
- Necessary to maintain homeostasis-
- The relative acidity or alkalinity of a solution can be indicated by its pH.
- Refers to balance of hydrogen ions (H+)
- Hydrogen ion concentration is expressed as pH level
- pH is inversely proportional to concentration of H+ ions
-If the hydrogen (H+) ion concentration goes UP then the pH…. Down
PH levels
-If the hydrogen ion concentration goes up
the level of acidity goes up and the pH goes down
-The lower the pH indicates higher levels of acidity
- <7.35 is acidosis
- > 7.45 is alkalosis
Body Fluids: Acids or Bases
- Acids: Body produces acids
- H+: positive Charge and can causes electrolyte imbalances
- Body produces Bases
- Neutralize and excrete acids
Acid Base Basics
Acids
Form hydrogen ion in solution
Bases
Combine with hydrogen ions in solution
Acid Base Regulation
Metabolic processes produce acids
These acids must be neutralized and excreted
3 Mechanisms to regulate acid base balance and maintain pH: Buffer system, Respiratory system & Renal system
Buffers
First line of defense
Chemical actions
Change acids, or neutralize acids
Can also release needed H+ ions
Respiratory system
Changing level of CO2
Hypercarbic drive
Hypoxic drive
renal
Changing level of HCO3
Kidneys regulate H+ ions or bicarbonate ions
symptoms of acid bace imbalances
- CNS Depression: in both acidosis and alkalosis
- HA, lethargy, weakness, confusion…..
- May also lead to coma and death - Compensatory mechanisms :
- Also produce clinical changes
- Example metabolic acidosis: deep rapid respirations as the respiratory system attempts to compensate
-Example: Alkalosis: S/S are usually from electrolyte disturbances
-With alkalosis, hypocalcemia may result
S/S of hypocalcemia: muscle cramping, numbness, tetany….
ph normal
7.35-7.45
PaCO2
35-45
HCO3
22-26
Pa02
80-100
Sa02
> 95%
Respiratory Acidosis
-Low ph
-high CO2
Build up of CO2
Pulmonary issues
HYPOVentilation
Accumulation/excess: carbonic acid in blood –
This leaves extra H+
pH ↓ decreases