When does a state of alkalemia exist?
1) The HCO₃^-/CO₂ ratio exceeds 20:1.
2) The blood pH exceeds 7.45.
3) The blood PCO₂ exceeds 54 mm Hg.

Question

When does a state of alkalemia exist? 1) The HCO₃^-/CO₂ ratio exceeds 20:1. 2) The blood pH exceeds 7.45. 3) The blood PCO₂ exceeds 54 mm Hg.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Alkalemia exists when the blood pH exceeds 7.45, indicating a higher than normal alkalinity. The HCO₃^-/CO₂ ratio (which seems to refer to the bicarbonate to carbon dioxide ratio) affecting this condition also aligns with the concept, but a PCO2 exceeding 54 mm Hg typically indicates respiratory acidosis, not alkalemia.

When Does a State of Alkalemia Exist