Metabolic Alkalosis and Respiratory Alkalosis
Occurs in:
- Diuretic therapy (low potassium) and pneumonia
- Vomiting (H+ loss) and congestive cardiac failure (hyperventilation)
ABG hallmark: the pCO2 will be reduced and the HCO3– raised
For example, in a patient who has been vomiting profusely and is, as a result, highly anxious with raised respiratory rate:
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The clinical picture needs to be considered – this patient is alkalotic with a low CO2, indicating a respiratory component, but the bicarbonate is high, rather than normal or low.