Metabolic Alkalosis: The Forgotten Acid-Base Imbalance

We often draw blood gasses looking for an ACIDosis, but what about when you discover an ALKAlosis? In this episode, I share a story of a patient with a history of CHF, admitted for diuresis. She was initially improving but becames lethargic and difficult to arouse. We were surprised when her VBG showed alkalosis instead acidosis. Guest Sarah Lorenzini from the Rapid Response RN podcast, helped me make sense of our finding. Listen in to learn about this rare acid base imbalance that can occur as a result of a very common intervention. Check out Nicole Kupchik's exam reviews and practice questions at nicolekupchikconsulting.com. Use the promo code UPMYGAME20 to get 20% off all products.Do you need help with your resume, interviewing, or need career coaching? Check out Sarah at New Thing Nurse: Get 15% off of her resume and cover letter templates using the promo code UPMYGAME Nursing students and new grad career services  Experienced RN career services NP career services Up My Nursing Game is partnering with VCU Health Continuing Education to offer FREE continuing education credits for registered nurses. Click here to obtain nursing credit.See the show notes at upmynursinggame.com. The key moments in this episode are:00:02:32 - Patient background and presentation00:15:14 - Causes of metabolic alkalosis 00:20:18 - Treatment of diuretic induced metabolic alkalosis, 00:27:12 - Diagnostic reasoning, antibiotic stewardship