acid-base balance Flashcards
what is normal arterial blood pH range
7.35-7.45
what can abnormal pH lead to
death
what is acid-base balance regulated by
respiratory and renal mechanisms
describe how respiratory mechanisms regulate acid-base balance
rapid pH change due to quick diffusion of CO2 (minutes to hours)
describe how renal mechanisms regulate acid-base balance
regulate hydrogen ion excretion or retention and formation or excretion of bicarbonate ions
slower compensatory mechanism than respiratory (can take up to 3 days)
how is acid-base balance measured
ABGs
-frechly oxygenated blood
-partial pressure of the gases reflect the overall effectiveness of gas exchange
what is normal PaO2 range
85-95
what is normal PaCO2 range
35-45
what is noraml HCO3 range
22-26
what are some acid-base imbalances
-respiratory acidosis
-respiratory alkalosis
-metabolic acidosis
-metabolic alkalosis
each can be uncompensated, partially compensated, or compensated
clinical manifestations of metabolic acidosis
-kussmaul breathing
-capillary dilation (flushing of skin)
-dehydration
-ABD pain, n/v
pH = A
HCO3 = A
clinical manifestations of metabolic alkalosis
-shallow breathing
-tetany like sx
-confusion/irritability
-vomiting
pH = B
HCO3 = B
clinical manifestations of respiratory acidosis
-dyspnea/impaired gas exchange
-flushing, warm skin
-tachycardia/weakness
pH = A
CO2 = A
clinical manifestations of respiratory alkalosis
-rapid shallow breathing
-tetany like sx
-palpitations/vertigo
pH = B
CO2 = B
causes of metabolic acidosis
-severe infection
-diabetic acidosis
-tissue trauma
-shock
-renal failure
-heart failure
-severe diarrhea or starvation
