Arterial Blood Gases

Type Causes Manifestations Management

Respiratory . COPD . Weakness . Assess VS
Acidosis . Respiratory . Tachycardia . Monitor
pH<7.35; . Overdose . Decreased LOC . ABG
PaCO2>45 . Atelectasis . Headache . CPT
. Pulmonary . TCDB
edema
. Aspiration
Respiratory . Hyperventilation . Lightheadedness . Slow
Alkalosis . Anxiety . Ringing of the breathing
pH>7.45; . Pain ears . Paper bag
PaCO2<35 . Ventilators . Tingling
Metabolic . DKA . Headache . Administer
Acidosis . Diarrhea . N/V sodium
pH<7.35; . ASA poisoning . Kussmaul bicarbonate
HCO3<22 . Renal failure respiration . Monitor I/O
. Dysrhythmias . Use seizure
precautions
Metabolic . Vomiting . Tingling . Monitor VS
Alkalosis . NGT . Dizziness . I/O
PH>7.45; . Diuretics and . Bradypnea . ABG
HCO3>26 Antacids

Remember : Respiratory Opposite; Metabolic Equal

Fast Facts : pH = 7.35 – 7.45 PCO2 = 35 – 45 HCO3=22-26

ABG: Arterial Blood Gases

ASA: Acetylsalicylic Acid (Aspirin)
COPD: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder
CPT: Chest Physiotherapy
DKA: Diabetic Ketoacidosis
I/O: Intake and Output
LOC: Level of Consciousness
N/V: Nausea and Vomiting
NGT: Nasogastric Tube
TCDB: Turn, Cough, Deep Breathe