Management of acid base imbalances The normal PH of blood is usually 7.35 – 7.45. The body therefore has to maintain blood PH within this values in order for the body to function normally. A substance that dissociates to produce ions is acid. Acids are also proton donors while bases are proton acceptors. Acids are produced when the body metabolizes substances. For example during oxidation reactions that produce energy also yield carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide then combines with water to form carbonic acid. Low PH in the body is called acidosis and when there is high blood PH is called alkalosis. Acidosis can be metabolic acidosis or respiratory acidosis. Acidosis can be due to; - Carbon dioxide retention - Excessive loss of bicarbonate either through feces or urine - Ingestion of acids or their precurso...
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