Base Deficit Calculator

Calculate Bicarbonate Needed



Formula

To calculate the Bicarbonate Needed (\(HCO₃⁻\)):

\[ HCO₃⁻ = BD \cdot 0.3 \cdot W \]

Where:

What is Base Deficit?

Base deficit is a measure used in medicine to quantify the amount of excess acid in the blood. It is often used in the context of metabolic acidosis, where the blood has a lower pH than normal. The base deficit indicates how much bicarbonate is needed to neutralize the excess acid and bring the blood pH back to normal levels. This measurement is crucial in critical care settings, such as in the treatment of trauma patients, to assess the severity of acidosis and guide appropriate treatment.

Example Calculation 1

Let's assume the following values:

Using the formula:

\[ HCO₃⁻ = 10 \cdot 0.3 \cdot 70 = 210 \text{ mEq} \]

The bicarbonate needed is 210 mEq.

Example Calculation 2

Let's assume the following values:

Using the formula:

\[ HCO₃⁻ = 15 \cdot 0.3 \cdot 80 = 360 \text{ mEq} \]

The bicarbonate needed is 360 mEq.