Final Exam Suite

ABG Trainer

Read the gas. Name the disorder. Then judge the compensation. The numbers are new every time. Keep going until the four-step method feels automatic.

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Step 1. Which disorder is this?
Step 2. What is the compensation state?
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The four-step method & normal ranges
1. Look at pH. Below 7.35 is acidosis. Above 7.45 is alkalosis. If the pH is in range but the other values are not, it is fully compensated. Then see which side of 7.40 the pH sits on.
2. Look at PaCO2. If it moves the opposite way to the pH, the problem is in the lungs. That is respiratory.
3. Look at HCO3. If it moves the same way as the pH, the problem is metabolic.
4. Check the compensation. Other value normal means uncompensated. Other value off but pH still off means partially compensated. pH back in range with both values off means fully compensated.
ROME — Respiratory Opposite, Metabolic Equal.
Normals: pH 7.35–7.45 · PaCO2 35–45 mmHg · HCO3 22–26 mEq/L · PaO2 80–100 mmHg

Pathophysiology · Dr. Akash Garg