 |
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
Metabolic Acidosis
Clinical Manifestations
- hyperkalemia: shift of acid to ICF and K+ to the ECF
- anorexia, nausea, and vomiting
- warm, flushed skin
- cardiac dysrhythmias & CNS dysfunction
- headache, diarrhea, tremors
Metabolic Alkalosis
Clinical Manifestations
- cardia dysrhythmias; seizures; confusion; muscle twitching, agitation
- >pH;>HC03; normal PaCo2 or elevated if compensation occurs
Respiratory Acidosis
Clinical Manifestations
- > PaCo2; HCO3 is normal or > with renal compensation
- vasodilatation; cardiac dysrhythmias, tachycardia, somnolence, decreased ventilation
Respiratory Alkalosis
Clinical Manifestations
- > pH; < PaC02; HCO3 normal or low due to compensation
- nausea, vomiting, tingling of fingers
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ok...now it is time to review the three essential steps of ABG analysis!
Number One!
Determine if the client is demonstrating an acidotic (remember: pH less than 7.35) or alkalotic
(pH greater than 7.45).
Number Two!
What is the 'primary problem'
If the client is acidotic with a PaC02 greater than 45 mmHg it is RESPIRATORY
If the client is acidotic with a HC03 less than 22 mEq/L it is METABOLIC!
If the client is alkalotic with a PaC02 less than 35 mmHg it is RESPIRATORY!
If the client is alkalotic with a HC03 greater than 26 mEq/L it is METABOLIC!
Number Three!
Is the client compensating?
Are both components (HCO3 and PaCO2) shifting in the same direction? Up or down the continuum?
Above or below the normal ranges? If this is noted, you know that the client’s buffering systems
are functioning and are trying to bring the acid-base balance back to normal.
Would you like to try some examples? Come on...let's give it a try!
Next Page
|
|
|
|
