500
A patient reports taking Diamox and has been reporting confusion, fatigue, and headaches. On assessment, you note the patient is exhibiting deep and rapid respirations. Which of the following arterial blood gas findings confirm the correct acid-base imbalance for this patient given their symptoms and medication usage?
(Hint: Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors)
1. HCO3 12, pH 7.19, PaCO2 29
2. HCO3 23, pH 7.36, PaCO2 36
3. HCO3 10, pH 7.65, PaCO2 47
4. PaCO2 49, pH 7.55, HCO3 21
1. HCO3 12, pH 7.19, PaCO2 29
This patient is at risk for metabolic acidosis, especially since they are taking Diamox (Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors which reduces the reabsorption of bicarb). HCO3 12, pH 7.19, PaCO2 29 are the only ABGs that reflect metabolic acidosis.