NURSING 101

In order to solve acid-base disorders, it is important to know the normal values for pH, CO2 and HCO3 (bicarbonate), which are shown below • pH 7.35 to 7.45 • CO2 35 to 45 • HCO3 22 to 26 The first value to look at in an acid-base disorder is the pH • If pH is <7.35, the acid-base imbalance is acidotic • If pH is <7.45, the acid-base imbalance is alkalotic Now, to determine if the imbalance is metabolic or respiratory, determine whether HCO3 goes in the same or oppo...