Alkalosis vs Acidosis
When in ROME, do as the nurses do in ROME! ROME is Respiratory Opposite, Metabolic Equal. This is a quick and simple way of remembering the respiratory acid/base disorders.
Potassium
An easy way to remember the potassium levels in alkalosis and acidosis is this:
- There is “lo” in alkalosis, which helps you to remember that the potassium is low in alkalosis.
- There is no “lo” in acidosis, so the potassium level is high.
Diarrhea & Vomiting
The PH and the HCO3 are low in acidosis. Your butt is low so think of diarrhea. The PH and HCO3 are high in alkalosis. Your mouth is higher than your butt so think of vomit.
