Cause:Vomiting, diuretics (renal H+ loss to save K+ and Na+)
Pathophys:Sx and cmplc when pH >7.6, which causes decr ionized calcium levels
see Figure 17.1 for description of Metabolic and Respiratory Components of Acid-Base Balance
Supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmias; angina induction
Rx:
KCl and NaCl repletion, not K-gluconate; NH4Cl 10 gm = 180 mEq iv as 1-2% soln, or arginine HCl in extreme or resistant cases
Acid-Base Nomogram Bands = Mean ±2 SD Response in Normals