ABGs

Question 1

Causes of respiratory alkalosis (4)

Answer 1

• hyperventilation (pain, fever, anxiety)
• hypermetabolic states (trauma, burns, seizures)
• high rate on mechanical ventilation
• CNS disorders (stroke)

Question 2

S/s of Respiratory Alkalosis (3)

Answer 2

• pericubital numbness (hypocalcemia because Ca binds to albumin more in alkalosis)
• hypoxia
• tachycardia

Question 3

Causes of respiratory acidosis (4)

Answer 3

• COPD, CAL
• Cardiac arrest
• Sedation
• Lactic acidosis

Question 4

S/s of respiratory acidosis (3)

Answer 4

• hypoxia
• headache
• confusion

Question 5

Causes of metabolic acidosis (6)

Answer 5

• renal failure
• lactic acidosis - liver failure
• hyperkalemia
• DKA
• diarrhea (huge loss of bicarb)
• fistulas

Question 6

S/s of metabolic acidosis (2)

Answer 6

• lethargy

- weakness

Question 7

Causes of metabolic alkalosis (7)

Answer 7

• hypokalemia
• vomiting
• NaHCO3 (meds for heartburn)
• NGT suctioning
• hypovlemia (contraction alkalosis)
• Cushing’s (a lot of aldosterone)
• overproduction of bicarb by kidneys

Question 8

S/s of metabolic alkalosis

Answer 8

• weak
• fatigue
• decreased BP
• decreased RR (body is basic –> low CO2 –> wants to retain CO2)

Question 9

Increase in acid production secondary to hypoxia

Answer 9

Base deficit