Title: Describe the major types of acid-base imbalances.
Course: Practical Nursing II (14052-II) > Section: Understanding Fluid and Electrolyte Balance

Description should include

- normal pH
- inverse relationship between hydrogen ion (H+) concentration and pH level
- role of blood buffers, lungs, and kidneys
- interpretation of arterial blood gas results
- causes and common assessment criteria of various imbalances.

Process/Skill Questions:

- What is the normal pH of an adult's arterial blood?
- How do the relative concentrations of H+ ions and oxygen ions affect pH?
- How do buffer systems, the lungs, and the kidney regulate acid-base balance?
- What mnemonic can assist one to interpret blood gases? (Respiratory = Opposite, Metabolic = Equal [ROME])
- What are the most common causes, signs, and symptoms of
  - respiratory acidosis
  - respiratory alkalosis
  - metabolic acidosis
  - metabolic alkalosis?
- What nursing interventions are appropriate for maintaining/preserving acid-base balances?