Fluid, Electrolytes, and acid-base balance

Question 1

Normal values for pH, PCO2, sodium, and bicarb

Answer 1

pH: 7.40-7.44
PCO2: 40-44
Sodium: 140-144
Bicarb: 25 mEq

Question 2

First rule when assessing acid base balance

Answer 2

Determine the pH status
>7.44 alkalosis
<7.40 acidosis

Question 3

Second rule when assessing acid base balance

Answer 3

Determine whether the primary processes is respiratory, metabolic, or both

Look at PCO2:

• Less than 40 mmHg = RESP ALKALOSIS (hyperventilating)
• Greater than 44 mmHg = RESP ACIDOSIS (not breathing enough)

Look at bicarbonate

• greater than 25 mEq = MET ALKALOSIS
• less than 25 mEq = MET ACIDOSIS

Question 4

What does a high anion gap indicate

Answer 4

It indicates metabolic acidosis

Question 5

What acid base combination is never possible

Answer 5

Resp acidosis and resp alkalosis

Question 6

What is the only difference between arterial and venous blood gas

Answer 6

Venous blood gas does not have an accurate measurement of O2