Bicarbonate can be used to assess and monitor acid-base (acid-alkali / pH) and electrolyte (charged ion) status in conditions known to cause imbalance.
Bicarbonate
As part of routine electrolyte measurement in blood or when symptoms or medical conditions could indicate problems with acid-base (acid-alkali) balance in the body. It is most useful when measured alongside pH, partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2) and other electrolytes (e.g. sodium, potassium and chloride). It can help detect or monitor disorders as well as the response to treatment.
A blood sample taken from a vein in the arm is needed for bicarbonate. A blood sample from an artery may be taken at the bedside if blood gases (including calculated bicarbonate) are also being tested.
No test preparation is needed before blood is collected. For accurate results, blood should be spun and tested promptly in full and capped tubes. For accurate blood gas measurement (pH, PCO2 and calculated bicarbonate), arterial blood should be collected in a heparin tube that is capped, well mixed, free from air bubbles and analysed immediately at the bedside.