Arterial Blood Gases Flashcards
What is the optimum pH range for the body>
7.35-7.45.
What controls the excretion/retention of CO2?
The lungs.
Can vary levels of CO2 very quickly by adjusting the respiratory rate.
What controls HCO3 levels?
The kidneys.
As a result, excretion/resorption of this occurs much more slowly, than of CO2.
What is metabolic acidosis?
A state caused by the presence of excess H+ ions (e.g. sepsis, renal failure). To counteract this, the body will remove CO2 via the lungs.
How does metabolic acidosis present on ABG?
Reduced pH, reduced CO2, and reduced HCO3
How does metabolic acidosis present on ABG?
Reduced pH, reduced CO2, and reduced HCO3.
The patient will also be tachypnoeic.
What is respiratory acidosis?
The accumulation of CO2 due to a lung disease, or mechanical issue with respiration. Results in acid build-up, therefore the kidneys hold on to HCO3 (slow response).
As a result, acute respiratory acidosis, and chronic acidosis present different on ABG.
How does acute respiratory acidosis present on ABG?
Reduced pH and increased CO2 levels.
How does chronic respiratory acidosis present on ABG?
Reduced pH, increased CO2 levels, and increased HCO3 levels.
What is metabolic alkalosis?
A state caused by the loss of acid from the body. To counteract this, the body hypoventilates.
A common cause is vomiting.
How does metabolic alkalosis present on ABG?
Increased pH, and mildly increased CO2 levels.
What is respiratory alkalosis?
A state often caused by hyperventilation. The body is slow to respond to this.
Causes include a panic attack, and a pulmonary embolism.
How does respiratory alkalosis present on ABG?
Increased pH levels, reduced CO2 levels, and little/no change in HCO3 levels.
Patient will be hyperventilating.
