Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse (CMSRN) Practice Exam 2025 – All-in-One Guide to Master Your Certification!

A low pH in arterial blood gases (ABG) indicates acidosis. In a clinical context, the pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with a normal range for arterial blood being approximately 7.35 to 7.45. When the pH drops below 7.35, it reflects an increase in hydrogen ion concentration in the blood, leading to an acidic environment.

Acidosis can result from various conditions, including respiratory issues, metabolic disturbances, or exposure to certain toxins. In respiratory acidosis, for instance, carbon dioxide builds up in the bloodstream due to inadequate ventilation, causing the pH to decrease. In metabolic acidosis, the body produces excess acid or fails to excrete sufficient acid through urinary mechanisms.

Understanding this relationship is crucial for healthcare professionals in diagnosing and managing patients effectively, as differentiating between acidosis and alkalosis is essential for appropriate intervention and treatment. Recognizing a low pH allows healthcare providers to initiate further investigations and treatment plans targeted at the underlying cause of the acid-base disturbance.