Introduction to Acids and Bases in Nursing

Study Notes

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.

Description

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.