Acid Base Balance Study Guide

These flashcards cover key concepts related to acid-base balance, including definitions, processes, conditions, arterial blood gas components, and the physiological responses of the body.

What is acid-base balance?

It is your body keeping the correct pH balance so everything functions correctly.

What is an acid?

A substance that releases hydrogen ions.

What is a base?

A substance that takes up hydrogen ions.

What is acidosis?

A condition where pH decreases, indicating too much acid in the body.

What is alkalosis?

A condition where pH increases, indicating too much base in the body.

What are the 3 processes to maintain acid-base balance?

Acid production, acid buffering, and acid excretion.

What is the normal pH range for arterial blood?

7.35 to 7.45.

What does HCO3- represent, and what is its normal range?

HCO3- represents bicarbonate and its normal range is 22 to 26 mEq/L.

What does PaO2 measure?

The amount of oxygen in arterial blood.

What are symptoms of alkalosis?

Cramps, tetany, dizziness, confusion, spasms, and numbness in feet and hands.

What are symptoms of acidosis?

Weakness, hyporeflexia, increased heart rate, and confusion.

What is the Allen's test used for?

To assess blood flow in the radial and ulnar arteries prior to an arterial blood gas (ABG) collection.

What does PaCO2 indicate?

The amount of carbon dioxide dissolved in arterial blood.

What is the role of the kidneys in acid-base balance?

The kidneys excrete metabolic acid and regulate bicarbonate levels.

What is respiratory acidosis?

A condition where PaCO2 is greater than 45 mmHg due to CO2 accumulation.

What is respiratory alkalosis?

A condition where PaCO2 is less than 35 mmHg due to excessive CO2 excretion.

What does an increase in potassium indicate during acidosis?

Potassium moves out of cells to keep intracellular fluid neutral.

What causes respiratory acidosis?

Hypoventilation, respiratory depression, airway obstruction, etc.

What are common causes of metabolic acidosis?

Diabetic ketoacidosis, prolonged diarrhea, renal failure.

What does the term 'compensation' refer to in acid-base balance?

It refers to the body's ability to change values to return pH to normal.

What does the ROME acronym stand for?

Respiratory Opposite, Metabolic Equal.

What is indicated by a low pH and high PaCO2?

Respiratory acidosis.

What is indicated by a high pH and low HCO3-?

Metabolic alkalosis.