Fluid and Electrolytes

pH = 7.35 – 7.45 (7.30 = absolute) (>7.40 = alkalosis / <7.40 = Acidosis)

- <7.35 = Acidosis
- >7.45 = Alkalosis

PCO2 = 35 – 45 mmHg (36 – 40 = Acidosis) / (30 – 35 = Alkalosis)

- <35 = Alkalosis
- >45 = Acidosis

HCO3 = 22 – 26 mEq/L (22 – 24 = Acidosis) / (25 – 26 = Alkalosis)

- <22 = Acidosis
- >26 = Alkalosis

 Compensated – if there is normal pH and abnormal pCO2/HCO3 (the other is trying to

compensate)
 uncompensated – if HCO3PCO2 is normal and pH is abnormal
 Partially – if pH is abnormal, (for compensated only)
 Fully – if pH is normal (for compensated only)

Check first the substance with no partner to know whether it is compensated or uncompensated

Then check the pH the value of pH to know whether it is Partially or Fully