Mixed acid base disorders

Question 1

Mixed acid base imbalance

Answer 1

Composed of 2 or more pathologic processes that affect pH

Question 2

When to suspect

Answer 2

-Compensation greater than expected
-pH is normal with known A/B problems (rarely happens from compensation)
-pH is changed in opposite direction from what predicted from known primary problem
-HCO3 and PCO2 changes in opposite direction

Question 3

Some situations

Answer 3

-Renal failure and vomiting
-Ketoacidosis and pancreatitis
-Heat stroke
-Trauma to thoracic wall and shock
-Vomiting from aspiration pneumonia