Week 5 - ABG's

Question 1

What is Step 1 for interpreting ABG’s?

Answer 1

Look at the pH and determine if:
- Pt. is in Alkalosis
- Pt. is in Acidosis
- In the normal range

Question 2

What is Step 2 for interpreting ABG’s?

Answer 2

Identify which system has caused the change in pH?

Look at CO2 and decide if it is:
- High = >42 - acidosis
- Low = <38 - alkalosis

Look at Bicarb (HCO3) and decide if it is:
- High = >26 - alkalosis
- Low = <22 - acidosis

Question 3

What is Step 3 for interpreting ABG’s?

Answer 3

Determine whether compensation is occurring:

Compensating = change in other system but pH is abnormal
Compensated = change in other system and pH back to normal
Non-Compensating = no change in other system

Question 4

What is the normal A/a gradient while breathing room air?

Answer 4

< 10 mmHg

Question 5

What does a large A/a gradient indicate?

Answer 5

There is a problem with gas exchange - either a diffusion or V/Q mismatch

Question 6

What does the A/a gradient tell us?

Answer 6

It tells us the difference between Alveolar (A) and Arterial (a) oxygen tensions