acid-base chemistry

Question 1

4 step approach to understanding acid-base disorders?

Answer 1

what is the pH?
What is the bicarbonate?
What is the PaCO2?
What is the anion gap?

Question 2

Process primarily causing reduction in PaCO2

Answer 2

Respiratory alkalosis

Question 3

Discuss acid-base compensation?

Answer 3

If the primary acid-base problem is metabolic, the compensatory mechanism is respiratory (usually altered within minutes)
And vice versa
Metabolic compensation by the kidneys for a respiratory acid-base problem usually takes place over several days

Question 4

Partial vs full compensation

Answer 4

Full compensation returns pH to normal, Partial does not