Introduction to Respiratory Alkalosis

Respiratory alkalosis is one of four primary arterial blood gas (ABG) imbalances, which also include metabolic alkalosis, metabolic acidosis, and respiratory acidosis. (0:25) This condition signifies that the lungs are excessively active in breathing, leading to specific changes in blood pH and carbon dioxide levels.

Core Concepts

Respiratory: In ABG analysis, "respiratory" indicates that the lungs are the organ system primarily responsible for the imbalance. (0:45)
Alkalosis: This term means the blood is more alkaline or basic than its normal state, which is reflected by an elevated pH value. (0:58)

Physiological Mechanism

During respiratory alkalosis, the lungs "get carried away" with breathing, resulting in hyperventilation. (1:20) This increased respiratory rate causes the body to expel too much carbon dioxide (CO2). (1:25) Since CO2 is an acid, its excessive removal from the blood leads to a decrease in blood acidity, making the blood more basic and increasing the pH. (1:55)

Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Values

Interpreting ABG panels requires understanding normal ranges and how they shift during alkalosis.

pH Value:
- Normal range: 7.35 to 7.45. (1:08)
- In respiratory alkalosis: The pH will be greater than 7.4, indicating an alkaline state. (1:15)
PaCO2 (Partial Pressure of Carbon Dioxide):
- Normal range: 35 to 45 mmHg. (2:15)
- In respiratory alkalosis: The PaCO2 will be less than 35 mmHg, reflecting the excessive expulsion of CO2. (2:05)

Causes of Respiratory Alkalosis

The primary underlying cause of respiratory alkalosis is an increased respiratory rate, commonly known as hyperventilation. (2:35) Various factors can trigger hyperventilation, including: (2:45)

Fever
Pain
Mechanical ventilation
Panic attacks
Any other condition that leads to an abnormally high breathing rate.

For nursing school exams, it is crucial to remember that hyperventilation and the subsequent loss of carbon dioxide are the fundamental mechanisms behind respiratory alkalosis. (2:55)

Respiratory Alkalosis: Understanding Causes and ABG Interpretation

Respiratory Alkalosis: Understanding Causes and ABG Interpretation