Acidosis/Alkalosis Flashcards
The acidity or alkalinity depends on the concentration of this ion.
H+
normal pH
7.35-7.45
What is an ABG?
a measurement of the partial pressure of O2, CO2, pH, and HCO3 in arterial blood
Who normally draws this bloodwork? Where is it drawn from?
Respiratory therapists commonly draw from the radial, brachial, and femoral arteries.
What is acidosis?
It is characterized by an abundance of H+ ions in the arterial blood, with a pH of less than 7.35.
What are the acids?
H+, CO2, and H2CO3 (carbonic acid)
How are acids produced?
They are produced during metabolic processes.
How are acids excreted from the body?
Some exit via the lungs; others are buffered and excreted via kidneys.
What is alkalosis?
It is characterized by a decrease of H+ ions in the arterial blood, with a pH of more than 7.45.
What are the bases?
HCO3 (bicarbonate)
What is a buffer?
A chemical substance that reduces changes in systemic pH by either releasing or binding H+ ions. It is considered to be a moment by moment regulation.
Why is CO2 considered a “potential acid”?
Because it forms carbonic acid when combined with H2O.
What are compensatory mechanisms?
Mechanisms that try to prevent large changes in pH and/or attempt to correct alterations in acid-base balance; compensatory mechanisms ALWAYS alter the pH towards a normal level.
Give 2 examples of compensatory mechanisms.
lungs and the kidneys
What is partial pressure?
Pressure exerted by a single gas.
What is the goal in the regulation of pH?
To maintain or restore body pH to a normal level - either through buffers or compensatory mechanisms.
What are some examples of buffers?
proteins, carbonic acid - bicarbonate, phosphate
How do the lungs function as a compensatory mechanism?
By expiration, in which CO2 is eliminated from the body, thereby reducing the amount of acids. (note that the lungs cannot eliminate H+ ions)
normal range of PaCO2
35-45mmHg
normal range of HCO3 (bicarbonate)
22-26 mEq/L
normal range of PO2
80-100 mmhg
What does a low PO2 indicate and what is the potential (respiratory) result?
A low PO2 indicated hypoxia and can result in hyperventilation.