ABGs

Question 1

Normal pH values

Answer 1

7.35—–7.45
Low=acid
High=Alkaline

Question 2

Normal PaCO2 values

Answer 2

35—45 mmHg

Question 3

Normal Bicarb (HCO3) values

Answer 3

22——26 mEq/L

Question 4

Normal PaO2 values

Answer 4

80—-100 mmHg

Question 5

ROME means what?

Answer 5

Respiratory Opposite
Metabolic Equal

Question 6

What organ controls Bicarb (base) levels in body? –HCO3–

Answer 6

Kidneys are the control
If bicarb isn’t in range think metabolic or systemic problem

Question 7

What organ controls PaCO2 levels in body? (acid)

Answer 7

Lungs
If PaCO2 levels are out of range think respiratory issue

Question 8

What state would pt be in if pH low and bicarb low?

Answer 8

pH low?=Acidosis
Bicarb low?=Same>Metabolic

Question 9

What state would pt be in if pH high and pCO2 low?

Answer 9

pH high?=Alkalosis
pCO3 low? Opposite=Respiratory

Question 10

What state would pt be in if pH low and pCO2 high?

Answer 10

pH low?=Acidosis
pCO2 high?=opposite=Respiratory

Question 11

What state would pt be in if pH high and Bicarb high?

Answer 11

pH high?=Alkalosis
Bicarb high? =Same=Metabolic

Question 12

What are common causes of metabolic acidosis?

Answer 12

Loss of Bicarb/Base or gain of acid:
Diarrhea
Starvation
Renal failure
DKA
Shock
Salicylate Acid OD

Question 13

What are some common causes of metabolic alkalosis?

Answer 13

Loss of acid or gain of base:
Diuretics
NG suctioning
Vomiting
TPN
Excessive Bicarb intake (antacids)
Hypokalemia (GI too slow)

Question 14

What are some common causes of respiratory acidosis?

Answer 14

Anything that keeps lungs from working!
COPD
Atelectasis
Pneumonia
OD with sedative

Question 15

What are some common causes of respiratory alkalosis?

Answer 15

Anything that causes lungs to work too well!
Hyperventilation
Liver failure
Stimulated respiratory center
Asthma