Acid Balance; Giddens Flashcards
acid-base balance is defined as
the process of regulating the pH, bicarbonate concentration, and partial pressure of carbon dioxide of body fluids.
An acid is a substance that releases
hydrogen ions (H+)
base is a substance
that takes up H+
low pH
solution is acidic
high pH
solution is basic (alkaline)
Acid-base balance is a dynamic interplay between three processes
acid production or intake,
acid buffering, and
acid excretion
lungs excrete
carbonic acid
kidneys excrete
metabolic acid
Acid-base imbalances usually occur as a
consequence of another underlying condition.
greatest risk for acid-base imbalances are individuals who have at least one of these risk factors:
- Excessive production or intake of metabolic acid
- Altered acid buffering due to loss or gain of bicarbonate
- Altered acid excretion
- Abnormal shift of H+ into cells
baking soda
(sodium bicarbonate)
diarrhea is the lose of
bicarbonate… leads to metabolic acidosis
oliguria can develope
metabolic acidosis.
vomiting removes
hydrochloric acid…. leads to metabolic alkalosis
hyperventilation (increased rate and depth of respiration)
excretes too much carbonic acid….. respiratory alkalosis
