ACID-BASE ANALYSIS-STEP 4
From NeuroRehab.wiki
SUMMARY
1. Check the respiratory component.
2. In metabolic acidosis, the expected pCO2 is 15 + actual HC03- from the chemistry.
3. In metabolic alkalosis, the expected pCO2 increases by 0.7 mmHg for every 1 mEq/L increase in the HC03- ⇒ 0.7*rise in measured bicarb.
4. If higher than expected pCO2 is present in the blood gas results, a respiratory acidosis is present.
5. If lower than expected pCO2 is present in the blood gas results, a respiratory alkalosis is present.
