Question

In the following ABG, is it Respiratory or Metabolic; normal, acid, or alkaline. compensated, uncompensated, partially compensated.

pH 7.31

pCO2 40

HCO3 16

Answer 1

Answer:- uncompensated respiratory alkalosis

ABG can be interpreted using the following analysis points:

Finding acidosis or alkalosis:

• If pH is more it is acidosis, if pH is less it is alkalosis.

Finding compensated, partially compensated, or uncompensated ABG problems:

• When PaCO2 is high, but pH is normal instead of being acidic, and if HCO3 levels are also increased, then it means that the compensatory mechanism has retained more HCO3to maintain the pH.

• When PaCO2 and HCO3 values are high but pH is acidic, then it indicates partial compensation. It means that the compensatory mechanism tried but failed to bring the pH to normal.

• If pH is abnormal and if the value of either PaCO2 or HCO3is abnormal, it indicates that the system is uncompensated. This is probably because of either respiratory or metabolic acidosis.

ABG NORMALS

1. pH =7.35 - 7.45
2. PCO2 =35 - 45 mmHg
3. PO2 =80 - 100 mmHg
4. HCO3 =22 - 26 mmol/L