How is ABG used to assess acid-base balance in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)?

In diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), ABG testing is essential for evaluating the severity of the acid-base imbalance and guiding treatment:

Identifying Metabolic Acidosis: ABG typically shows a low pH (<7.35) and decreased bicarbonate (HCO3-) levels due to the accumulation of ketoacids.
Assessing Severity: The degree of acidosis (pH) and compensation (PaCO2) provides a clear picture of the metabolic disturbance.
Monitoring Treatment Progress: Serial ABGs help track the resolution of acidosis as insulin therapy reduces ketone production and fluids restore electrolyte balance.
Detecting Mixed Disorders: ABG can identify concurrent conditions, such as respiratory alkalosis due to hyperventilation, which may complicate the clinical picture.
Guiding Fluid and Electrolyte Therapy: Changes in ABG values, such as pH and bicarbonate levels, inform adjustments in fluid replacement and correction of potassium or other electrolyte imbalances.