ABG Interpretation

Question 1

Metabolic Acidosis

Answer 1

low ph, low HCO3, normal CO2

Question 2

Metabolic Alkalosis

Answer 2

high ph, high HCO3, normal CO2

Question 3

Metabolic Acidosis with respiratory compensation

Answer 3

low pH, low HCO3, low CO2

Question 4

Metabolic Alkalosis with respiratory compensation

Answer 4

high ph, high HCO3, high CO2

Question 5

Respiratory acidosis

Answer 5

low ph, high CO@, normal HCO3

Question 6

Respiratory alkalosis

Answer 6

high ph, low CO2, normal HCO3

Question 7

Respiratory acidosis with metabolic compensation

Answer 7

low or normal ph, high CO2, high HCO3

Question 8

Respiratory alkalosis with metabolic compensation

Answer 8

high or normal ph, low CO2, low HCO3

Question 9

+2 Base marker

Answer 9

indicates that there is a higher than normal amount of HCO3 in the blood, which may be due to a primary metabolic alkalosis or a compensated respiratory acidosis

Question 10

-2 Base excess

Answer 10

indicates that there is a lower than normal amount of HCO3 in the blood, suggesting a primary metabolic acidosis or a compensated respiratory alkalosis

Question 11

Mixed acidosis or alkalosis

Answer 11

CO2 and HCO3 will be moving in opposite directions