Introduction

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Be familiar with the components of an ABG: pH, pCO2, pO2, HCO3, base excess, anion gap, p50, and the underlying physiology and anatomy of a normal result

Understand the difference between the ABG and VBG

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• what are the main components of an ABG?
• what are the indications for an ABG?
• what are the contraindications for an ABG?
• how do you obtain an ABG?
• can you use a VBG instead of an ABG?

Blood pH

<aside> 💡 Interpret an ABG and distinguish between metabolic and respiratory acidosis and alkalosis

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• what is blood pH?
• what determines blood pH?
• how does the body regulate acid-base balance homeostasis?

Primary Acid-Base Disturbances

<aside> 💡 Understand the common causes of acid base disturbances and the underlying physiological changes that have led to the presentations and results

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• what are the causes of NAGMA?
• what are the causes of HAGMA?
• what are the causes of metabolic alkalosis?
• what are the causes of respiratory acidosis?
• what are the causes of respiratory alkalosis?
• how do you approach ABG interpretation?