This document outlines an 8-step approach to assessing metabolic acidosis: 1) take history and do exam, 2) assess data validity, 3) identify primary disturbance via pH, HCO3, and pCO2 analysis, 4) examine compensatory responses, 5) calculate anion gap, 6) assess delta ratio, 7) check urine anions, 8) make an acid-base diagnosis. Key causes of metabolic acidosis include ketoacidosis, lactic acidosis, and renal tubular acidosis resulting from bicarbonate loss. Treatment depends on the underlying cause but may include fluid resuscitation, insulin, bicarbonate supplementation, and addressing precipitating factors.
This document outlines an 8-step approach to assessing metabolic acidosis: 1) take history and do exam, 2) assess data validity, 3) identify primary disturbance via pH, HCO3, and pCO2 analysis, 4) examine compensatory responses, 5) calculate anion gap, 6) assess delta ratio, 7) check urine anions, 8) make an acid-base diagnosis. Key causes of metabolic acidosis include ketoacidosis, lactic acidosis, and renal tubular acidosis resulting from bicarbonate loss. Treatment depends on the underlying cause but may include fluid resuscitation, insulin, bicarbonate supplementation, and addressing precipitating factors.