Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Analysis and Acid-Base Balance

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering arterial and venous blood gas ranges, clinical definitions of acid-base imbalances, and compensatory physiological mechanisms.

Normal pH Range

The standard physiological level for arterial blood balance, defined as being between $7.35$ and $7.45$.

Normal PaCO2 Range

The standard partial pressure of carbon dioxide in arterial blood, which ranges from $35$ to $45\,mmHg$.

Normal PaO2 Range

The standard partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood, typically between $80$ and $100\,mmHg$.

Normal Bicarbonate (HCO3-) Range

The standard range for bicarbonate in the blood, which is between $22$ and $26\,mEq/L$.

Respiratory Acidosis

An acid-base imbalance characterized by a low pH (less than $7.35$) and a high $PaCO_2$ (greater than $45\,mmHg$).

Respiratory Alkalosis

An acid-base imbalance characterized by a high pH (greater than $7.45$) and a low $PaCO_2$ (less than $35\,mmHg$), often caused by hyperventilation.

Metabolic Acidosis

An acid-base imbalance characterized by a low pH where the $PaCO_2$ is not high, often accompanied by low bicarbonate levels as seen in Diabetic Ketoacidosis.

Metabolic Alkalosis

An acid-base imbalance characterized by a high pH where the $PaCO_2$ is not low, often involving an excess of bicarbonate.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)

A metabolic crisis characterized by hyperglycemia, acidosis, and a significant depletion of bicarbonate, often requiring insulin and fluid resuscitation.

Kussmaul breathing

A dramatic respiratory pattern involving full, deep, and rapid breaths used by the body to blow off $CO_2$ to compensate for metabolic acidosis.

Hypercarbia

A clinical state involving an abnormally high level of carbon dioxide ($CO_2$) in the blood.

Compensation

The body's attempt to normalize pH by using one system to offset an imbalance in the other, such as the kidneys 'squirreling away' bicarb to compensate for chronic high $CO_2$.

Central Cyanosis

A bluish discoloration of the face or lips that serves as a clinical indicator of hypoxia.

Venous Blood Gases (VBG)

A blood test where the pH is typically lower ($7.31$-$7.41$), the $CO_2$ is higher ($41$-$51\,mmHg$), and the oxygen is lower ($30$-$40\,mmHg$) compared to arterial samples.

HHS

Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar State, a condition that usually occurs in type 2 diabetics.