CMP/BMP

Question 1

Why is serum CO2 measured?

Answer 1

CO2 is a good estimate for serum bicarbonate levels because serum bicarb comprises about 95% total CO2 content.

Question 2

Normal serum CO2 level?

Answer 2

20- 28 mmol/L (normal range varies widely depending on source)

Question 3

What is the clinical significance of low CO2?

Answer 3

Low CO2 (i.e. low bicarb) indicates either metabolic acidosis or compensated respiratory alkalosis, though bicarb < 10 almost always signifies metabolic acidosis. (Comp for Resp alk will not drive bicarb that low)

Question 4

What is an cation?

Answer 4

A positively charged molecule. It has net positive charge b/c is has more protons than electrons

Question 5

What is an anion?

Answer 5

A molecule with a net negative charge. It has a negative charge b/c it has more electrons than protons

Question 6

Which electrolyte is the most abundant anion in the extracellular fluid?

Question 7

Normal chloride

Answer 7

102-110 mmol/L (per UUHac)

Question 8

In difficult ti interpret acid base disorders, consider which electrolyte?

Answer 8

Chloride

Question 9

Hyperchloremia may indicate:

Answer 9

Compensated respiratory alkalosis OR excessive bicarb loss 2/2 diarrhea, mineralcorticoid deficiency, renal tubular necrosis

Question 10

Hypochloremia may indicate:

Answer 10

Metabolic alkalosis OR compensated respiratory acidosis, or excessive vomiting, mineralcorticoids, & salt losing renal diseases.