Respiratory Acid–Base Disorders in the Critical Care Unit

The incidence of respiratory acid–base abnormalities in the critical care unit (CCU) is unknown, although respiratory alkalosis is suspected to be common in this population. Abnormal carbon dioxide tension can have many physiologic effects, and changes in PCO₂ may have a significant impact on outcome. Monitoring PCO₂ in CCU patients is an important aspect of critical patient assessment, and identification of respiratory acid–base abnormalities can be valuable as a diagnostic tool. Treatment of respiratory acid–base disorders is largely focused on resolution of the primary disease, although mechanical ventilation may be indicated in cases with severe respiratory acidosis.