Final answer:
Lab tests for pH, pCO2, and HCO3 can identify acidosis and alkalosis. Metabolic acidosis is characterized by lower bicarbonate levels, while metabolic alkalosis is characterized by elevated pH and excess bicarbonate. pCO2 values can indicate compensation in both conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lab tests for pH, CO2 partial pressure (pCO2), and HCO3 can identify acidosis and alkalosis, indicating whether the imbalance is respiratory or metabolic, and the extent to which compensatory mechanisms are working. The blood pH value indicates whether the blood is in acidosis, the normal range, or alkalosis. The pCO2 and total HCO3 values aid in determining whether the condition is metabolic or respiratory, and whether the patient has been able to compensate for the problem.
Metabolic acidosis is problematic, as lower-than-normal amounts of bicarbonate are present in the blood. The pCO2 would be normal at first, but if compensation has occurred, it would decrease as the body reestablishes the proper ratio of bicarbonate and carbonic acid/CO2.
On the other hand, alkalosis is characterized by a higher-than-normal pH. Metabolic alkalosis is problematic, as elevated pH and excess bicarbonate are present. The pCO2 would again be normal at first, but if compensation has occurred, it would increase as the body attempts to reestablish the proper ratios of bicarbonate and carbonic acid/CO2.