Acid-Base Imbalance Overview

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to acid-base imbalance, including definitions, conditions, and mechanisms of regulation.

Acid

Substance that releases a hydrogen ion.

Base (Alkali)

Substance that binds hydrogen.

pH Scale

Range of acidity and alkalinity from 0 (acidic) to 14 (basic), with 7 being neutral.

Acidosis

Condition characterized by an excess of acid or deficiency of base in the body.

Alkalosis

Condition characterized by a deficiency of acid or excess of base in the body.

Respiratory Acidosis

Acidosis caused by hypoventilation and retention of CO2.

Metabolic Acidosis

Acidosis caused by an excess of acid or a deficiency of bicarbonate.

Respiratory Alkalosis

Alkalosis caused by hyperventilation and loss of CO2.

Metabolic Alkalosis

Alkalosis caused by loss of acid or excess intake of base.

Bicarbonate

A key buffer in the body that helps maintain acid-base balance.

Compensated Acid-Base Disorder

An acid-base imbalance that is corrected by the body's buffers, lungs, or kidneys.

Uncompensated Acid-Base Disorder

An acid-base disorder that shows abnormalities in pH and one other value.

Kussmaul's respiration

Rapid, deep breathing associated with metabolic acidosis.

Electrolyte

Minerals in the body that carry an electric charge and are essential for bodily functions.

ABGs

Arterial blood gases, tests that measure the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.

Cellular Buffers

Proteins, hemoglobin, bicarbonates, and phosphates that help maintain pH balance by absorbing or releasing hydrogen ions.

Chronic Illness

Long-term health conditions that may affect acid-base balance.

Acute Illness

Short-term health conditions that may disrupt acid-base balance.

Diagnostic Values

Refer to biochemical markers used to diagnose acid-base imbalances based on blood gas analyses.