abg values

[mickeyfan]

I need some info on resp. acidosis, resp. alkalosis, metabolic acidosis, and metabolic alkalosis. I don't really understand it very well. I also need to know how you decide if it is compensated fully or partially. How do you know? Any information would be appreciated.

[Jonathank]

Just to nitpick: CO2 is NOT an acid. It's just easily transformed into H2CO3 (carbonic acid). One of my instructors referred to it as an electrolyte. It's not that, either. It's just also easily transformed into HCO3- (bicarbonate).