This method is simple, easy and can be used for the majority of ABGs.

It only addresses acidbase balance and considers just 3 values. pH, PaCO2 HCO3

Step 4. Identify whether it is fully compensated, partially, uncompensated. Fully compensated-if ph is normal and PaCO2 and HCO3 is abnormal Partially compensated-if is ph is abnormal and both PaCO2 and HCO3 is abnormal Uncompensated-If ph is abnormal and PaCO2 or HCO3 is normal. Step 5. Determine if its metabolic or respiratory

Step 1. Use pH to determine Acidosis or Alkalosis

pH < 7.35 ACIDOSIS 7.35-7.45 NORMAL OR COMPENSATED >7.45 ALKALOSIS

SAMPLE: 1. ph - 7.36 acidosis compensated PaCO2 35mmHg alkalosis HCO3 22mEq/L acidosis ANSWER: PARTIALLY COMPENSATED METABOLIC ACIDOSIS 2. pH 7.56 ALKALOSIS PaCO2 31 mmHg ALKALOSIS HCO3 22 mEq/L NORMAL ANSWER: UNCOMPENSATED

Step 2. Use PaCO2 to determine respiratory effect. PaCO2

<35mmHg ALKALOSIS

35-45mmHg NORMAL OR COMPENSATED

>45mmHg ACIDOSIS

RESPIRATORY

ALKALOSIS

Step 3. Use HC03 to determine metabolic effect HCO3 <22mEq/L ACIDOSIS 22-26mEq/L NORMAL OR COMPENSATED >26mEq/L ALKALOSIS