ABGs and Lytes

Question 0

What are the 3 major upper GI electrolytes?

Answer 0

1) Sodium
2) H+
3) Chloride (as NaCl or HCl)

Question 1

What are the normal range of values for PaCO2 and HCO3?

Answer 1

1) PaCO2 - 35 to 45 mmHG

2) HCO3 - 22 to 26 mEq/L

Question 2

What are the 4 major Lower GI electrolytes?

Answer 2

1) HCO3
2) Potassium
3) Sodium
4) Magnesium

Question 3

Distinguish between Hyperventilation and Tachypnea.

Answer 3

1) Hyperventilation - Normal respiratory rate but with increased depth, caused by anxiety, fear, and a stressful responses.
2) Tachypnea - Rapid respiratory rate often with shallow depth, associated with pathology, not stressful responses (i.e., pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, severe pain, and respiratory distress).

Question 4

Explain the connection between Respiratory alkalosis and Hypocalcemia.

Answer 4

Since a portion of both hydrogen ions and calcium are bound to serum albumin, when look becomes alkalotic, bound hydrogen ions dissociate from albumin, freeing up the albumin to bnd with more calcium, and thereby decreasing the freely ionized portion of total serum calcium.

Question 5

What are some of the clinical signs of Hypocalcemia?

Answer 5

1) Numbness and tingling of fingers, toes and around the mouth
2) Lightheadedness
3) Chvostek and Trousseau’s signs
4) Spasms of striated muscles

Question 6

Which ECG changes are related to Hypokalema?

Answer 6

1) Flattened T Wave
2) Presence of U Waves
3) Depressed ST segment

Question 7

What types of meds can cause Hyperkalemia?

Answer 7

1) ACE Inhbitors
2) Beta blockers
3) K+ sparing diuretics
4) NSAIDS (via acute or chronic renal failure)
5) Chemo
6) Some antibiotics

Question 8

Which ECG changes are seen with Hypercalcemia?

Answer 8

1) Shortened ST segments

2) Shortened QT intervals

Question 9

Which ECG changes are seen with Hypomagnesemia?

Answer 9

1) Depressed ST segment
2) Prologned QT intervals
3) Prolonged QRS