Introduction to Acids and Bases in Nursing

Introduction to Acids and Bases in Nursing

• Acids are substances that release hydrogen ions (H+) when dissolved in water.
• Bases (alkalis) are substances that release hydroxide ions (OH-) when dissolved in water.
• The pH scale measures the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution.
• A pH of 7 is neutral (e.g., pure water).
• pH values below 7 are acidic.
• pH values above 7 are alkaline (basic).

Acid-Base Balance in the Body

• Maintaining a stable pH is crucial for proper bodily functions.
• The body uses various mechanisms to regulate pH, including buffers.
• Buffers resist changes in pH by absorbing or releasing H+ ions.
• Examples of important buffer systems in the body include the bicarbonate buffer system.
• Respiratory system plays a role through CO2 exchange, affecting acid-base balance.
• Kidneys help regulate acid-base balance by excreting or conserving H+ or bicarbonate.

Common Acid-Base Disorders

• Acidosis occurs when the body's pH falls below 7.35.
• Alkalosis occurs when the body's pH rises above 7.45

Types of Acidosis

• Respiratory acidosis: Impaired removal of CO2 from the body (e.g. COPD).
• Metabolic acidosis: Increased production of acids or loss of bicarbonate (e.g. diabetic ketoacidosis).

Types of Alkalosis

• Respiratory alkalosis: Hyperventilation leading to excessive CO2 loss.
• Metabolic alkalosis: Loss of stomach acid or excessive bicarbonate intake.

Clinical Manifestations

• Signs and symptoms of acid-base imbalances vary, depending on the severity and duration of the imbalance.
• Possible symptoms include:
  • Changes in respiratory rate or rhythm
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Confusion or lethargy
  • Changes in mental status
  • Seizures
  • Cardiac dysrhythmias

Nursing Assessment and Interventions

• Assessing vital signs, including respiratory rate and depth, and blood pressure and heart rate is important.
• Measuring and monitoring arterial blood gases (ABGs) is critical in evaluating acid-base status.
• Evaluating patient history and symptoms is important in clinical reasoning.
• Implementing interventions based on the underlying cause and severity of the acid-base imbalance, such as correcting the primary disorder, providing respiratory support, and administering medications are crucial.

Importance for the Nursing Profession

• Understanding acid-base balance is critical for nurses to recognize, assess, and manage patients with acid-base imbalances effectively.
• Acid-base imbalances can be life-threatening if not promptly addressed. Accurate assessment and interventions help improve patient outcomes.
• Nurses are often the first to identify signs and symptoms of acid-base disorders, which plays a key role in patient safety.
• Continuous monitoring of acid-base balance is crucial in intensive care units (ICUs) and other areas when treating acutely ill patients.

Acid-base imbalances in specific populations

• Infants and older adults are often more susceptible to acid-base imbalances due to immaturity or age-related physiological changes.
• Monitoring of acid-base status should be considered as a priority consideration when managing patients with chronic conditions.
• Accurate interpretation and understanding of ABG lab reports are vital for clinical decision-making.

This quiz covers the fundamental concepts of acids and bases as they relate to nursing. It explores the pH scale, the importance of acid-base balance in the body, and common disorders such as acidosis and alkalosis. Prepare to test your understanding of how these concepts apply to patient care.