Acid-Base Balance 1

These flashcards cover key concepts related to metabolic acidosis and alkalosis, including definitions, risk factors, clinical manifestations, and interventions.

Metabolic Acidosis

A condition characterized by low pH (<7.35) and low bicarbonate (<22 mEq/L) resulting from the accumulation of acids or loss of bases.

pH

A measure of hydrogen ion concentration; a pH less than 7.35 indicates acidosis, while greater than 7.45 indicates alkalosis.

Hydrogen ions

Positively charged ions that influence the acidity of the blood; increased concentration is associated with metabolic acidosis.

Kussmaul’s respirations

Abnormal deep, labored breathing pattern often associated with metabolic acidosis.

Bicarbonate

A substance that helps maintain the pH balance in the body; low levels are indicative of metabolic acidosis.

Lactic acid

An acid that can accumulate in the blood during anaerobic metabolism, contributing to metabolic acidosis.

Acid-Base Imbalance

A disturbance in the normal balance of acids and bases in the body, resulting in conditions such as acidosis or alkalosis.

Clinical Manifestations

Observable signs and symptoms of a condition; in metabolic acidosis, these may include neurological changes or gastrointestinal symptoms.

Renal Regulation

The process by which the kidneys maintain acid-base balance by selectively excreting or conserving hydrogen ions and bicarbonate.

Risk Factors for Metabolic Acidosis

Conditions that increase the likelihood of developing metabolic acidosis, such as diabetes, alcoholism, and renal failure.

Interventions for Metabolic Acidosis

Nursing actions taken to manage metabolic acidosis, including monitoring, airway protection, and IV electrolyte replacement.

Metabolic Alkalosis

A condition characterized by high pH (>7.45) and high bicarbonate (>26 mEq/L), often due to loss of acids or excess bicarbonate.

Hypokalemia

Low potassium levels in the blood, which can contribute to the development of metabolic alkalosis.

Positive Trousseau sign

A clinical sign of hypocalcemia characterized by carpal spasm when taking a blood pressure cuff; may be seen in metabolic alkalosis.

Lifespan Considerations

Factors that influence how metabolic acidosis and alkalosis manifest and are managed differently in infants, children, and older adults.