Respiratory Alkalosis

Respiratory Alkalosis Definition: Respiratory alkalosis is a condition marked by low levels of carbon dioxide in the blood. Compensation: In the presence of respiratory alkalosis the kidneys compensate for the increase in pH by retaining H+ ions and excreting HCO3 (Bicarbonate) - ions. As a result, pH falls towards normal and HCO3 - concentration falls below normal. Renal compensation to respiratory alkalosis is a slow process and the pH does not completely return to normal. Causes, incidence, and risk factors: Common causes include hyperventilation, anxiety, and fever. Any lung disease that leads to shortness of breath may also result in respiratory alkalosis. Symptoms: The symptoms may include light-headedness, dizziness, and numbness of the hands and feet. Signs and tests: Arterial blood gas Chest x-ray or pulmonary function test Treatment: Treatment is aimed at the condition that causes respiratory alkalosis. Life-threatening respiratory alkalosis is very rare. Breathing into a paper bag -- or use of a mask that causes re-breathing of carbon dioxide -- helps reduce symptoms in some cases. Expectations (prognosis): The prognosis is based on the condition that causes the respiratory alkalosis. Complications: Seizures may occur if the alkalosis is extremely severe. This is very rare. NCLEX Type Question: A patient has taken an overdose of aspirin. Which of the following should a nurse most closely monitor for during acute management of this patient? A: Onset of pulmonary edema B: Metabolic alkalosis C: Respiratory alkalosis D: Parkinson’s disease type symptoms Rationale: (A) Aspirin overdose can lead to metabolic acidosis and cause pulmonary edema development. Other Free Resources from Caring4you.net http://caring4you.net/tests.html Please donate