Click each card to reveal more information.
pH
This is a measure of how acidic or alkaline the blood is and is dependant on the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+). Increase in the amount of hydrogen ions will decrease the pH value (acidemia). Decrease in the amount of hydrogen ions will increase the pH value (alkalemia).
Partial Pressure of Oxygen (PaO2)
This measures the pressure of oxygen dissolved in blood. It indicates how well oxygen moves from the lungs to the bloodstream and so the oxygenation status.
Partial Pressure of Carbon Dioxide (PaCO2)
This measures the amount of carbon dioxide in the blood. It indicates how well carbon dioxide can move out of the body and so the ventilation status.
Bicarbonate (HCO3)
This is the amount of basic compound produced by the kidneys. This is an acid buffer and helps to normalise the pH.
Base Excess (BE)
This is a measure of the amount of base that needs to be added or removed from a sample to restore a normal pH. This can be looked at as a alternative to bicarbonate.
Oxygen Saturation (SaO2)
This measures the amount of oxygen being carried by haemoglobin to the body and so the oxygen carrying capacity.
