Metabolic acidosis/alkalosis

Question 1

What is metabolic acidosis?

Answer 1

A condition characterized by too much hydrogen and too little bicarbonate (HCO₃) in the body.

Common causes include diabetic ketoacidosis, acute/chronic kidney injury, malnutrition, and severe diarrhea.

Question 2

What is metabolic alkalosis?

Answer 2

A condition characterized by too much bicarbonate (HCO₃) and too little hydrogen in the body.

Causes include excessive antacids, diuretics, excess vomiting, and hyperaldosteronism.

Question 3

What pH level indicates metabolic acidosis?

Answer 3

pH < 7.35

Accompanied by HCO₃ < 22.

Question 4

What pH level indicates metabolic alkalosis?

Answer 4

pH > 7.45

Accompanied by HCO₃ > 26.

Question 5

What are common signs and symptoms of metabolic acidosis?

Answer 5

• Increased respiratory rate
• Hyperkalemia
• Muscle twitching
• Weakness
• Arrhythmias
• Confusion
• Kussmaul breathing

Kussmaul breathing is characterized by deep, rapid breathing, often exceeding 20 breaths per minute.

Question 6

What are common signs and symptoms of metabolic alkalosis?

Answer 6

• Increased respiratory rate
• Increased potassium (K⁺)
• Dysrhythmias
• Muscle cramps/weakness
• Vomiting
• Tetany
• Tremors
• EKG changes

Hypoventilation may occur with ≤ 12 breaths per minute.

Question 7

What is the relationship between metabolic acidosis and serum potassium levels?

Answer 7

Metabolic acidosis = increased serum potassium

This condition often leads to hyperkalemia.

Question 8

What is the relationship between metabolic alkalosis and serum potassium levels?

Answer 8

Metabolic alkalosis = decreased serum potassium

This condition often leads to hypokalemia.

Question 9

What interventions should be monitored in metabolic acidosis?

Answer 9

• Potassium (K⁺) levels
• Intake & output
• Vital signs & EKG
• Administer IV solution of sodium bicarbonate
• Initiate seizure precautions

Monitoring potassium levels is crucial due to the risk of hyperkalemia.

Question 10

What is a key treatment for diabetic ketoacidosis?

Answer 10

Give insulin

Insulin stops the breakdown of fats, which halts the production of ketones.

Question 11

What are dietary modifications recommended for patients with metabolic issues?

Answer 11

• Increase protein intake

Dietary changes can help manage symptoms and improve metabolic function.

Question 12

What are the normal potassium (K⁺) levels?

Answer 12

3.5 - 5.0 mmol/L

Levels outside this range may indicate metabolic imbalances.

Question 13

What are the normal calcium (Ca) levels?

Answer 13

9 - 11 mg/dL

Monitoring calcium levels is important in metabolic conditions.

Question 14

True or False: Metabolic acidosis is characterized by an increase in bicarbonate levels.

Answer 14

False

Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decrease in bicarbonate levels.

Question 15

Fill in the blank: In metabolic acidosis, the lungs will _______ carbon dioxide (CO₂).

Answer 15

blow off

This is a compensatory mechanism to help increase pH levels.

Question 16

Fill in the blank: In metabolic alkalosis, the lungs will _______ carbon dioxide (CO₂).

Answer 16

retain

This compensatory response helps to decrease pH levels.