Learning Objectives
After completion of this module and its related learning activities, the student will understand how to interpret abnormal blood gas results.

1. State normal ranges for blood gas parameters, and describe how each varies with altitude (or barometric pressure).
2. Explain the terms "acidosis" and "alkalosis" and describe how each is defined. Differentiate between respiratory and metabolic acid-base disturbances.
3. Explain the relationship between Base Excess and Actual Bicarbonate. Given appropriate information, be able to calculate B.E. or HCO3-.
4. Discuss the terms "compensated," "uncompensated," "partially compensated," and "combined" as they relate to acid-base interpretation.
5. Interpret blood-gas data as they relate to acid-base status, degree of compensation, oxygenation status.
6. Discuss how acid-base balance is determined by metabolic and respiratory systems:
   a. Develop the Henderson-Hasselbach equation and its clinical expressions.
   b. Explain the role of the respiratory system in control of volatile acid.
   1. Carbonic acid.
   2. Hydration reaction.

   c. Explain the role of the metabolic system in control of fixed acids.
     1.  Bicarbonate excretion/retention.

7. Discuss the significance of the following as they relate to assessing a patient¹s oxygenation:
   a. FIO2
   b. PaO2
   c. SaO2
   d. SpO2
   e. CaO2 (O2 content)

8. Discuss the origin of CO2 in the body and list the forms in which it is transported in the blood
   a. Review the Krebs cycle.
   b. Chloride shift.