16 The respirations that accompany metabolic acidosis are fr

16. The respirations that accompany metabolic acidosis are frequently called Kussmaul\'s respirations or \"air hunger.\" What is the purpose of such respirations?

17. A person is found uncounscious. He is wearing a Medic-Alert bracelet for diabetes and his breath has the typical odor of acetone (Ketoacids).

a. Predict his serum pH and the rationale for this prediction.

b. Predicts his serum potassium level.

18. A person will probably become very dehydrated as ketoacidosis develops. What heart rate and pulse characteristics would you expect to be present in this dehydrated condition

Solution

17]

Purpose of Kussmaul breathing is blow off excess CO2 build up in body

It is deep, gasping respirations that may be slow or rapid. Often associated with metabolic acidosis, this breathing pattern is compensatory as it attempts to blow off excess CO2 build up in body

Kussmaul is respiratory compensation for a metabolic acidosis, most commonly occurring in diabetics in diabetic ketoacidosis. Blood gases on a patient with Kussmaul breathing will show a low partial pressure of CO2 in conjunction with low bicarbonate because of a forced increased respiration. Kussmaul breathing develops, as the acidosis grows more severe.