(^440) Medical-Surgical Nursing Demystified
- Monitor lab test results.
- Monitor ABG results.
Metabolic Alkalosis
WHAT WENT WRONG?
The acid-base balance of the blood is basic because of either a decrease in acidity
or an increase in bicarbonate. Alkalosis is often associated with decreased levels of
potassium or calcium. Metabolic alkalosis may be due to excess intake of antacids,
blood transfusions, long-term parenteral nutrition, prolonged vomiting or nasogas-
tric suctioning, Cushing’s disease, use of thiazide diuretics, or excess aldosterone.PROGNOSIS
Correction or management of the underlying cause is necessary to help restore the
acid-base balance.HALLMARK SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- Muscle weakness due to neuromuscular changes and hypokalemia
- Muscle cramping and twitching due to electrolyte changes
- Anxiety and irritability
- Tetany and seizures, as alkalosis worsens
- Positive Chvostek’s sign due to hypocalcemia
- Positive Trousseau’s sign due to hypocalcemia
- Increased reflexes due to neuromuscular irritability
- Increased heart rate and myocardial irritability
INTERPRETING TEST RESULTS
- Arterial blood gas showing pH > 7.45, bicarbonate > 28 mEq/L, pCO 2
elevated. - Serum potassium low, chloride low.
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