Buffering Response to Acid/Base Imbalance - Checked and Complete

Question 1

Describe the Davenport Nomogram

Answer 1

A graphical representation of the HH equation

The x-axis represents pH and the y-axis represents [HCO3^- ].

Different isobars relate to constant level of P_CO2

Looks at immediate results, not buffering

Question 2

What is the bodies principle non-carbonic buffer?

Answer 2

Hemoglobin

Question 3

What is a result of NC buffering (such as when Hemoglobin snatches up hydrogen ions from respiratory hypoventilation)?

Answer 3

This shifts the CA equation to the right and produces more bicarb

The amount of anionic/basic hemoglobin lost = amount of bicarb produced

Question 4

Define a slyke

Answer 4

1 mM change in [HCO3^- ] per unit change in pH

For example, if pH decreases by 1 unit, Hb^- will buffer enough H+ to raise the plasma HCO3^- concentration by 11 mM.

Question 5

How are slykes represented in the Davenport Nomogram?

Answer 5

Buffering capacity of Hb in slykes is represented by a line with a slope of -11

11 mM/L bicarb units lost per 1 increase in pH

Question 6

Why does bicarb concentration increase during respiratory acidosis?

Answer 6

CA equation shifts to the right

Hydrogen ions bind with Hemoglobin instead of bicarb and reversing the reaction

Question 7

Why does the anion gap increase during acidosis?

Answer 7

Acidosis means release of more free hydrogen ions

Hydrogen ions are buffered by bicarb and other systems

Left over anion is not measured so the anion gap gets larger

Question 8

What are examples of endogenous acids that can increase the anion gap?

Answer 8

HSO4^- = renal failure

Lactic acid = hypoxemia

** Ketones = DM Type 1**