ABG interpretation

Question 1

normal O2 levels

Answer 1

10-14

Question 2

what does a PaCO2 > 6.0 kPa indicate?

Answer 2

respiratory acidosis (or respiratory compensation for a metabolic alkalosis)

Question 3

what does a PaCO2 < 4.7 kPa suggest?

Answer 3

respiratory alkalosis (or respiratory compensation for a metabolic acidosis)

Question 4

what does a bicarbonate < 22 mmol/l (or a base excess < - 2mmol/l) suggest?

Answer 4

metabolic acidosis (or renal compensation for a respiratory alkalosis)

Question 5

what does a bicarbonate > 26 mmol/l (or a base excess > + 2mmol/l) suggest?

Answer 5

metabolic alkalosis (or renal compensation for a respiratory acidosis)