Analysis of ABG’s

• What is the first step in analyzing ABG’s?

  Classify the pH
• What does a pH reading of 7.35 indicate?

  Acidosis
• What does a pH reading of 7.45 indicate?

  Alkalosis
• What is the normal range for pH?

  7.35 - 7.45
• What is the second step in analyzing ABG’s?

  Assess the PaCO2
• What does PaCO2 represent in acid-base balance?

  The respiratory component
• What PaCO2 value indicates respiratory alkalosis?

  Less than 35
• What PaCO2 value indicates respiratory acidosis?

  More than 45
• What is the third step in analyzing ABG’s?

  Assess HCO3 (bicarb)
• What does HCO3 primarily reflect in acid-base balance?

  The metabolic component
• What HCO3 value indicates metabolic acidosis?

  Less than 22
• What HCO3 value indicates metabolic alkalosis?

  More than 26
• What are the normal ranges for acid-base parameters?

  • pH: 7.35 - 7.45
  • PaCO2: 35 - 45
  • HCO3: 22 - 26
• How can you determine if an acid-base imbalance is respiratory in origin?

  If PaCO2 is abnormal
• How can you determine if an acid-base imbalance is metabolic in origin?

  If HCO3 is abnormal
• What are the implications of abnormal pH, PaCO2, and HCO3 levels?

  • Abnormal pH indicates acidosis or alkalosis
  • Abnormal PaCO2 indicates respiratory imbalance
  • Abnormal HCO3 indicates metabolic imbalance