Respiratory Acid-Base Disorders and Related Risk Factors in Critically Ill Patients

Abstract

Background: Respiratory acid-base disorders are commonly seen in the critical care setting and can occur independently or coexist with metabolic acid-base disorders. Aim of the study: To explore the pattern of respiratory acid-base disorders and related risk factors in critically ill patients. Design: the descriptive design was utilized in this study. Setting: This study was carried out in the Trauma and general Intensive Care Unit at Assiut university hospital. Sample: fifty patients admitted to trauma and general Intensive Care Unit. Tools: Four tools were used in this study, patient assessment tool, APACHE II tool, Acid-base parameters assessment tool, and Risk factors assessment tool. Result: A total of 50 patients most of them were male with a mean age of 40.37 ± 13.86 in the survivors versus 47.75 ± 11.86 in non-survivor. APACHE II score was significant in non-survivor group confirmed by (P = 0.000), (P = 0.003) respectively.The incidences of respiratory alkalosis (52%), respiratory acidosis (24%) were higher in the survivor group. The significant risk factor was iatrogenic(drugs, mechanical ventillation). Conclusion:Respiratory acid-base disorders are common in critically ill patients mainly respiratory alkalosis and the major related risk factor was an iatrogenic.