QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
Metabolic alkalosis is caused by either retention of base or loss of acid. Its causes include vomiting, diuretics, diarrhoea, primary hyperaldosteronism, Cushing’s syndrome or massive transfusion. By contrast, a paracetamol overdose usually results in metabolic acidosis.
10007711
b
Metabolic alkalosis
QuestionChoice
Paracetamol overdose can result in severe metabolic acidosis. On an arterial blood gas, this would mean a low pH, low bicarbonate and low carbon dioxide levels (particularly if the patient were compensating by hyperventilation).
10007710
a
Metabolic acidosis
QuestionChoice
This is caused by hypoventilation or impaired transfer of gas across alveolar membranes. Common causes of respiratory acidosis include opiate overdose, neuromuscular disorders, exhaustion or airway obstruction. By contrast, a paracetamol overdose usually results in metabolic acidosis.
10007713
d
Respiratory acidosis
QuestionChoice
Lactic acidosis occurs when there is an increased lactate in the blood stream. It is caused by tissue hypoxia (shock, limb ischemia, severe anaemia) or abnormalities in metabolism of lactate (diabetic ketoacidosis, cancer, liver disease, metformin or aspirin). By contrast, a paracetamol overdose usually results in metabolic acidosis.
10007714
e
Lactic acidosis
QuestionChoice
Respiratory alkalosis is caused by hyperventilation. It would happen as a result of things like CNS infections, subarachnoid haemorrhage, aspirin overdose, anaemia or panic attacks. By contrast, a paracetamol overdose usually results in metabolic acidosis.
10007712
c
Respiratory alkalosis
Concept
Chapter
2693
4620
Paracetamol Overdose
Topic
161
Emergency Medicine
14089
A 26-year-old female is brought into A&E after taking an overdose of Paracetamol.

Which of the following acid base disorders is most likely to be found in this patient?
a