What laboratory test provides real-time measurements of pH, PCO2, and HCO3- to diagnose the nature of acidosis?
Answer
Arterial blood gas (ABG)
The definitive tool for precisely diagnosing and evaluating the severity and type of acidosis is the Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) test. This test requires drawing a blood sample directly from an artery to obtain accurate, moment-to-moment measurements of key parameters, including the blood pH level, the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2), which reflects respiratory function, and the bicarbonate (HCO3-) level, which reflects metabolic status. Analyzing these three values allows clinicians to immediately distinguish between respiratory or metabolic acidosis and determine the extent of any compensatory efforts.
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