ACID BASE

Acid Base Overview

• Understanding acid-base balance is crucial for diagnosing and managing various medical conditions.

• Utilize mnemonics and clear categorization for easy recall.

Mnemonics for Acid-Base Disorders

ROME (Respiratory Opposite, Metabolic Equal)

• Respiratory:

  • pH ↑ and PCO₂ ↓ indicates Alkalosis

  • pH ↓ and PCO₂ ↑ indicates Acidosis

• Metabolic:

  • pH ↑ and HCO₃ ↑ indicates Alkalosis

  • pH ↓ and HCO₃ ↓ indicates Acidosis

Metabolic Acidosis

• Symptoms:

  • Changes in Level of Consciousness (LOC)

  • Headache

  • Disorientation

  • Hyperkalemia

  • Muscle twitching

  • Kussmaul respirations (deep, rapid breathing)

• Lab Values:

  • pH: 7.35

  • HCO₃: ↓ 22 mEq/L

Metabolic Alkalosis

• Symptoms:

  • Confusion (LOC)

  • Restlessness followed by lethargy

  • Dysrhythmias

  • Compensatory hypoventilation

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Diarrhea

• Lab Values:

  • pH: ↑ 7.45

  • HCO₃: ↑ 26 mEq/L

Respiratory Acidosis

• Symptoms:

  • Hypoventilation (difficulty breathing)

  • Rapid, shallow respirations

  • Increased blood pressure

  • Dyspnea (shortness of breath)

  • Headache

  • Hyperkalemia

  • Disorientation

  • Muscle weakness

• Lab Values:

  • pH: ↓ 7.35

  • PCO₂: ↑ 45 mm Hg

Respiratory Alkalosis

• Symptoms:

  • Seizures

  • Deep, rapid breathing

  • Hyperventilation

  • Confusion

  • Hypokalemia

  • Light-headedness

  • Tingling of extremities

• Lab Values:

  • pH: ↑ 7.45

  • PCO₂: ↓ 35 mm Hg

• Note: Always consult with educational resources for detailed understanding and treatment plans.