ABSTRACT
Assessment of acid-base status requires reliable data on both the measured parameters as well as the values derived from these measurements (1). The measurements include blood pH and PCO2, and total CO2 concentration (2). Plasma bicarbonate concentration ([HCO3
]) and other measures of the ‘‘metabolic’’ component of acid-base status are usually calculated from pH and PCO2, but they can also be calculated from the measured pH and [total CO2]. The analytical methods, the errors and limitations of these methods, and the definition, utility, and limitations of derived acid-base parameters are examined in this chapter. In addition, blood sampling and specimen handling are described.
