Re: Need help with the alveolar air equation
this is how we understand that alveolar gas equation at our academic facility:
First you have to calculate the "Alveolar Gas Equation"
FiO2 x (Patm-PH20)- PaCO2/R
* PH2O = 47mmHg
*R = VQ mismatch = 0.8
Then you have to come up with the Alveolar to arterial gradient (A-a gradient)
Equation
* PAO2 – PaO2
note: the PAO2 is figured from the "Alveolar Gas Equation"; whereas the PaO2 is obtained from the patient's ABG results
*Normal A-a gradient = 5-15mmHg or (age/4)+4
The A-a gradient looks @ the physiology of gas exchange across the alveolar-capillary membrane
Increases with: V/Q mismatch, R to L shunting, or diffusion abnormality
*the higher your A-a gradient, the worse the pulmonary disease process is (i.e. V/Q mismatch; R to L shunting; diffusion abnormality)
Hope that helps!
FLSRNA79
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