Arterial Blood Gases: Guidelines for Interpretation and Sample Problems

C


Arterial Blood Gases


Guidelines for Interpretation and Sample Problems


The following guidelines are meant to expand on the material presented in Chapter 3 and to simplify the interpretation of arterial blood gas values. Because memorizing a “cookbook” approach can sometimes be counterproductive if the reason why the approach is being used is not clear, these guidelines are meant to supplement a basic understanding of the underlying physiologic principles.


Numerous formulas are used to assess the appropriateness of compensation for a primary acid-base disorder. These formulas are particularly useful for suggesting whether a mixed acid-base disorder is present. Table C-1 lists commonly used formulas that predict the expected degree of respiratory compensation for a primary metabolic problem and metabolic compensation for a primary respiratory problem. These formulas relate arterial PCO2 and measured HCO3. However, measured values from arterial blood gases include arterial PCO2 and pH, not serum HCO3. Therefore, to use the formulas in the table, one must either measure serum HCO3 (as part of serum electrolyte values) or use a value calculated from PCO2 and pH according to the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation.



Alternatively, one can use other guidelines relating PCO2 and pH values. Because these latter guidelines are based on direct measurements obtained with arterial blood gases—and because they are relatively easy to remember—they are used in the method outlined here. It is worth noting that formulas relating PCO2 and pH become less accurate at the extremes of PCO2 and pH values and provide only rough guidelines. The human body does not respond to physiologic disturbances with mathematical precision.


Jun 12, 2016 | Posted by in RESPIRATORY | Comments Off on Arterial Blood Gases: Guidelines for Interpretation and Sample Problems

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