Key Terms
Normal values
Physiology
Alterations in Acid-Base Balance
Potpourri
100

pH below 7.35

Acidosis

p. 4

100

7.35 to 7.45

pH

p. 3

100

Critical to homeostasis and optimal cellular function.

Normal acid-base balance

p. 4

100

Results from abnormal bicarbonate loss or excess of nonvolatile acids in the body?

Metabolic Acidosis

p. 4 and 5

100

You may notice a decreased LOC, irritability and altered mental status or impaired memory and/or personality changes - What is the concept

Cognition.

p. 7

200

pH above 7.45

Alkalosis

p. 4

200

75-100 mmHg (book says 80 to 100 mmHg)

PaO2

p. 10

200

Substances that prevent major changes in pH?

Buffer systems:


p. 4

200

Excess of bicarbonate in relation to amount of hydrogen ions

Metabolic Alkalosis

p. 5

200

Identify patients at risk for acid-base imbalances.

Diabetes, Crohn's disease, Chronic kidney disease, chronic lung disease.

p. 7

300

Reflects acid-base balance through out the entire body and is the gold standard for assessment.

Arterial Blood Gasses (ABG's)

p. 9

300

35 to 45 mmHg

PaCO2

(Carbon dioxide)

p.10

300

Name the three major buffer systems.

Bicarbonate-Carbonic acid

Phosphate Buffer system

Protein Buffers

300

Primary change is in concentration of carbonic acid and CO2 is retained.

Respiratory Acidosis

p. 5

300

patients may experience respiratory distress may require intubation or a hypoxemic patient may require supplemental oxygen.

Airway Management

p. 12

400

paO2 level <80 mmHg

Hypoxemia

p. 10

400

24 to 28 MeQ/l

HCO3

(bicarbonate)

p. 10

400

Regulates carbonic acid by eliminate or retaining CO2.

Patients with chronic lung disease may have high serum CO2 levels

The respiratory system

p. 4

400

Primary change is in concentration of carbonic acid, CO2 is lost.

Respiratory Alkalosis

p. 5

400

Name some ways that we can promote health within our patients.

Maintain fluid balance, monitor chronic conditions, Nursing focused is on patient teaching related to nutrition and adherence to prescribed medications and treatment regimens. 

p. 7

500

Allen test:  to measure ulnar patency

p. 9

500

-3 to +3

Base Excess (BE)

p. 10

500

Responsible for long term acid-base regulation.

Renal System

p. 4

500

Name the risk factors for acid-base imbalance.

Critically ill, Hydration status, chronic conditions

p. 6 for the table 

p. 7

500

Name the independent interventions a nurse can do when it relates to acid-base imbalances.

Thorough patient history, daily weight, I/O, Assessment of respiratory and renal function, Maintain patient airway, Vital signs, O2 saturation, Assessing LOC and neurological status, Prompt reporting of changes in condition.

p. 11