QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
Metabolic acidosis is characterised by an increase in the concentration of H+, with an associated decrease in bicarbonate. This can be caused by a gain of acid, or loss of bicarbonate. The anion gap is important in differentiating between these two causes. A high anion gap is associated with a gain of acid (such as in renal failure, diabetic ketoacidosis or lactic acidosis) whilst a normal/reduced anion gap is associated with loss of bicarbonate (such as severe diarrhoea or renal tubular acidosis).
10003893
c
Metabolic acidosis
QuestionChoice
A mixed respiratory and metabolic acidosis would have a reduced pH, high CO2 and low bicarbonate. This can be caused by cardiac arrest or multi-organ failure.
10003895
e
Mixed respiratory and metabolic acidosis
QuestionChoice
Metabolic alkalosis is caused by an increase in bicarbonate intake (eg excessive antacid use) or a loss of acid from the body (eg severe vomiting). This causes a rise in pH and an alkalosis.
10003894
d
Metabolic alkalosis
QuestionChoice
Respiratory alkalosis is most commonly seen in panic attacks. Hyperventilation causes CO2 to be blown off which results in a decrease in the concentration of H+ ions in the blood, and therefore an increase in pH above normal limits.
10003891
a
Respiratory alkalosis
QuestionChoice
Respiratory acidosis results from failure of the respiratory system, causing a decrease in respiratory rate or a decrease in respiratory volume. This results in increased retention of CO2 and an increase in the concentration of H+ ions and subsequent acidosis. This can be caused by chronic respiratory conditions such as COPD.
10003892
b
Respiratory acidosis
Concept
Chapter
2693
4213
Respiratory alkalosis
Topic
150
Respiratory physiology
13325
A 54-year-old female attends the Emergency Department after experiencing a panic attack 1 hour ago. Her respiratory rate is currently 28 breaths per minute.

What is the most likely acid-base finding?
a