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ABGs
ABGs
2012
Outline
1. Discuss simple steps in analyzing ABGs
2. Calculate the anion gap
3. Calculate the delta gap
4. Differentials for specific acid-base disorders
Steps for ABG analysis
1. What is the pH? Acidemia or Alkalemia?
2. What is the primary disorder present?
3. Is there appropriate compensation?
4. Is the compensation acute or chronic?
5. Is there an anion gap?
6. If there is a AG check the delta gap?
7. What is the differential for the clinical processes?
Normal Values
Variable Normal Range
pH 7.35 - 7.45
pCO2 35-45
Bicarbonate 22-26
Albumin 4
Step 1:
Look at the pH: is the blood acidemic or alkalemic?
EXAMPLE :
65yo M with CKD presenting with nausea, diarrhea and acute
respiratory distress
ABG :ABG 7.23/17/235 on 50% VM
BMP Na 123/ Cl 97/ HCO3 7/BUN 119/ Cr 5.1
ACIDMEIA OR ALKALEMIA ????
EXAMPLE ONE
ABG 7.23/17/235 on 50% VM
BMP Na 123/ Cl 97/ HCO3 7/BUN 119/ Cr
5.1
Answer PH = 7.23 , HCO3 7
Acidemia
Step 2: What is the primary disorder?
AG = Na – Cl – HCO3 (normal 12 ± 2)
123 – 97 – 7 = 19
No need to correct for albumin as it is 4
Step 6: Calculate the different needed
formulas
Delta gap = (actual AG – 12) + HCO3
Adjusted HCO3 should be 24 (+_ 6) {18-30}
If delta gap > 30 -> additional metabolic alkalosis
If delta gap < 18 -> additional non-gap metabolic
acidosis
If delta gap 18 – 30 -> no additional metabolic
disorders
EXAMPLE : Delta Gap
ABG 7.23/17/235 on 50% VM
BMP Na 123/ Cl 97/ HCO3 7/BUN 119/ Cr 5/ Albumin 4.