Acid -Base Disturbances

Question 1

what pH does blood need to be between

Answer 1

pH 7.35 - 7.45

Question 2

WHat is a blood pH of less then 7.35 known as

Answer 2

Acidosis

Question 3

WHat is a blood pH of greater than 7.45 known as

Answer 3

Alkalosis

Question 4

Characteristics of metabolic acidosis

Answer 4

1. decreased blood pH
2. decreased bicarbonate conc

Question 5

3 causes of metabolic acidosis

Answer 5

1. Increased metabolic production - lactic acid, ketoacidosis
2. Ingestion of organic acids - toxins, methanol, ethylene
3. Reduced renal excretion - decreased acid excretion, reduced bicarbonate retention in CKD

Question 6

Characteristics of metabolic alkalosis

Answer 6

• increased blood pH
• increased blood bicarbonate conc

Question 7

2 causes metabolic alkalosis

Answer 7

1. Primary (Conn’s syndrome) or secondary aldosteronism (decreased renal blood flow)
2. Loss of H+ ions - vomiting

Question 8

Characteristics of respiratory acidosis

Answer 8

• decreased blood pH
• increased CO2 concentration

Question 9

Cause of respiratory acidosis

Answer 9

Hypoventilation - drug use, neuromuscular disorders e.g: asthma

(breathing rate decreased = less CO2 excreted)

Question 10

Charcacteristics of respiratory alkalosis

Answer 10

• increased blood pH
• decreased CO2 conc