by Andrew. Yes, Cynthia. I realize who Florence Kendall isâand if you read the 6th paragraph, youâll see how I refer to âherâ book. You may then come to the conclusion that the âHeâ in the following paragraph is a typo and was meant to be âSheâ.
Overview & Description. This test is used to determine the amount of bicarbonate, called HCO3, in the blood. The test actually measures the blood level of carbon dioxide, called CO2. During laboratory testing, HCO3 is converted to CO2. HCO3 is important in neutralizing acids.he normal value for CO2 in the blood is 23 to 29 mEq/L. Most of the carbon dioxide in the blood is in the form of bicarbonate. Either term can be used.
Our pH is still acidic, still caused by a respiratory issue, but the bicarb is now elevated, so this is a partially compensated respiratory acidosis. Once again, changing values to pH 7.37, PaCO2 74, HCO3 36. Now our pH is in the normal range.BUT, this is where people get messed up-you have to remember that the absolute normal is 7.40. This pH is on the acidic side, even though it is in the normal range. So then you look at the other values. the CO2 is very high, but so is the bicarb.I have seen Doctors and nurses who are unfamiliar with blood gas interpretation freak out on a gas like this.he first thing you look at is the pH. Normal range is 7.35 - 7.45, with the absolute being 7.4. the lower the #, the more acidic it is, and the higher it is the more alkalotic. The next thing you look at is the PaCO2.